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Celtic fans left bemused as Aston Villa announce 'counter terrorism strategy' in place for Champions League clash

Celtic fans left bemused as Aston Villa announce 'counter terrorism strategy' in place for Champions League clash

Celtic fans have reacted with bemusement after residents near Villa Park were told a “counter-terrorism” strategy is in place for Wednesday’s Champions League Battle of Britain encounter.

The English Premier League outfit sent out a letter to locals next to the ground and warned of “elevated risk” ahead of the clash, telling families of a raft of road closures and other measures in place for the final league phase game.

And the letter which has now been circulated on social media says: “These measures have been implemented as part of our counter-terrorism strategy and have been carefully planned in consultation with governing bodies to ensure the safety and security of all attendees and residents.

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Celtic fans
Celtic fans

"We sincerely apologies for any inconvenience these changes may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to deliver a safe and secure event.”

One Celtic fan said: “What’s going on here. Counter terrorism - thought we were going to a football game.” Just over 2000 Celtic fans will officially make the trip to the Midlands but thousands more ticketless supporters are expected in the city with a ticketed fan zone in operation.

Aston Villa have threatened to ban supporters and revoke season tickets if fans are found selling on their tickets to Celtic fans. The Midlands club issued the threat amid fears of the re-sale of tickets for the match, either in person or on secondary ticketing platforms, and warned details will be passed to police should anyone be found to be selling on tickets.

There was trouble involving Celtic’s rivals Rangers in their Europa League cross-border clash against Manchester United with many Ibrox punters getting access to the home end at Old Trafford. Authorities are desperate to avoid similar scenes.

A letter issued by Aston Villa before the Champions League clash with Celtic
A letter issued by Aston Villa before the Champions League clash with Celtic

Villa said in a statement: “Aston Villa would like to remind all supporters attending Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against Celtic that tickets purchased for home areas via Aston Villa are for Aston Villa supporters only. All GA (general admission) tickets have been purchased with an Aston Villa booking history and will be fulfilled digitally, sent to a registered email address.

"Tickets are sold for the sole use of the individual named on the ticket and the club does not permit them to be resold. Any fans found to be forwarding their ticket for use by visiting supporters will be prevented from purchasing tickets for the rest of the season at least.

“For clarity, this also includes the resale of tickets on secondary ticketing platforms who only seek to inflate the face value price. Season ticket holders will also have their season tickets revoked should they be found selling their seats to visiting supporters. Not only is touting risking your ability to attend future matches at Villa Park, it is illegal and West Midlands Police will be informed.

Aston Villa players celebrate with fans after Jack Grealish scores derby winner -Credit:Getty Images
Aston Villa players celebrate with fans after Jack Grealish scores derby winner -Credit:Getty Images

"The club would also request that supporters make the club aware of any fans who are attempting to sell their tickets either directly or via a third party. The club would urge all supporters, for the safety of all those attending matches at Villa Park, to respect the need for segregation.”

Celtic’s supporters liaison officer shared information of restrictions on banners which prompted a flood of replies. One said: “It would be easier to say what Aston Villa do actually permit.”