Celtic have released a strongly worded statement on their official website in which they – in no uncertain terms – lay the responsibility of Boli Bolingoli’s reckless actions firmly at the feet of the player after the full-back travelled to Spain on sanctioned days off without notifying the club or quarantining on his return.
The club reiterate that there have been no positive tests and the player, who played against Kilmarnock at the weekend, will be subject to the club’s disciplinary procedures.
With the Scottish Government threatening to halt the Premiership, Celtic’s statement may go some way in ensuring that, for now, it remains only that – a threat – and that the inevitable fixture pile up that would be caused by a cessation could be averted.
As part of the statement, the club couldn’t be clearer on the stance they are taking over the incident:
“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.”
Additionally, the club reiterates the lengths that they have gone to working with partner agencies to ensure that they have the safest possible environment for their employees and leading the way to see football return to Scotland.
What should happen to Bolingoli?
Fined
Suspended
Sacked
Bolingoli will not be a popular figure within the walls at Parkhead and for one individual to be criticised so personally speaks volumes about the actions of a player whose training kit could very well be on a “shoogly nail”.