BOLINGOLI let Celtic down. The 25-year-old’s trip to Spain has resulted in an enormous amount of backlash and rightfully so, he endangered the players, staff and management at Celtic as well as Sunday’s opponents, Kilmarnock. This news, coupled with the behaviour of the Aberdeen players that are forcing to self-isolate, has prompted the SPFL to draft some new rules for breaches of the COVID-19 protocols.
The Daily Record are reporting that a new draft of rules will be implemented so that any breaches will result in community service, fines and long suspensions for the offenders. Celtic have already said that they are willing to accept whatever punishment is thrown at the Scottish Champions. A lengthy ban for Bolingoli and a fine would be the expected sentence handed down by the footballing authorities and it is a punishment that is unfair on the club, who have been exemplary in getting football back. However it sets a precedent that this cannot be accepted.
Aberdeen should also be hit with a fine and they can decide whether they hit the players with the fine or pay it themselves. Sizeable fines given to the clubs/players would deter players from taking risks and putting the game at jeopardy.
Bolingoli is likely to have played his last game for Celtic; however, he and any players caught breaking the strict Coronavirus (like those at Aberdeen) should get a lengthy match ban when the breach threatens to shut down the football season like the past week has.
Eight Aberdeen players are having to self isolate after contracting the virus on a night out in Aberdeen city centre last weekend whilst Bolingoli was in Spain during the week. The fact that these individuals behaved as so lets down the clubs that have worked tirelessly to get football back. Furthermore it is a slap in the face to supporters that wrote cheques for their season tickets in the hope that they would be able to take a match soon when highly-paid players can’t even follow the rules.
There were no cases of breaches in England – with play off matches, Championship and Premiership resumption. Why then are some finding it so difficult to follow the simple procedure of training and playing. If players want some days away, visit some locations around Scotland. If they want a meal, get a takeaway. Really it is not a lot to ask for when millions of people had to work through the pandemic whether that is a key worker or NHS staff. Players should know better and those that threaten to break the rules should be told that they have no place at the club.
Celtic are pushing for a historic 10IAR and in recent years people would have said that it was the defence that could cost us – no one would have ever imagined that it could be like this.
Celtic have to regroup and overcome this ordeal. Neil Lennon can use it to his advantage as the siege mentality can kick in as the club look to complete on all fronts.
