Match commander Superintendent Kevin Lynch criticised the announcement. He warned there had been no U-turn on a policy agreed with Celtic and St Johnstone officials to ban flags and banners from the ground on safety grounds.
The police chief cautioned officers would rely on a robust search policy at the turnstiles. He was mystified by Celtic claims that a policy change had been agreed after further talks with the police and St Johnstone.
Twelve months ago, trouble flared at Celtic’s visit to Dundee and this latest controversy comes hard on the heels of mayhem at the Hoops’ last Premiership away match, at Motherwell, where damage estimated at £10,000 was caused to seating.
Superintendent Lynch said: “We were unaware of this statement in advance.
“It is very disappointing and it would appear there has been some confusion.
“There may be mixed messages but I must stress there has been no change in the policy agreed with both clubs regarding the Boxing Day fixture.”
Celtic on police collision course over banners green light
