FURIOUS Celtic have apologised for the “stupidity” of Boli Bolingoli for his secret trip to Spain before featuring in the 1-1 draw with Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Sunday.
The 25-year-old Belgian left-back, who came on late in the game as a substitute for Greg Taylor in Ayrshire, ignored government coronavirus quarantine guidelines and didn’t isolate before joining his team-mates at Lennoxtown in training as they prepared for the weekend game.
The champions are bracing themselves for ramifications, but have moved swiftly to take action against the defender who cost £3million when he signed from Vienna Rapid in July last year.
A club statement read: “Celtic Football Club unreservedly condemns and apologises for the behaviour of the player Boli Bolingoli in travelling to Spain without informing the club and in failing to observe quarantine restrictions.
“It is difficult to imagine a more irresponsible action in current circumstances and we find it beyond explanation. The Club will take immediate action through our own disciplinary procedures.
“Celtic are in touch with every SPFL club today, and with all relevant authorities, to apologise for the fact that one of our employees has created so much additional difficulty through his actions.
“All of our playing and backroom staff have been tested twice for Covid-19 since this incident and all, including the player in question, have tested negative. While this comes as a relief to all concerned, it in no way diminishes the seriousness or stupidity of the player’s actions.
“Since the Covid -19 crisis began, we have had a safe and healthy squad of players, recording not one positive test. As a club, we have worked tirelessly to ensure a sustained, safe environment for all.
“We have led the way in working with the football authorities and Scottish Government to establish the most rigorous, effective protocols and working practices, which ultimately led to the resumption of football. We could have done no more in this area.
“It is a matter of the deepest regret to us that the behaviour of one individual has jeopardised that reputation and reflected discredit on football more generally.”
