CELTIC have issued a statement in response to a proposed fan gathering outside Celtic Park on Sunday.

The club have stated they "do not believe staging an event of this kind is in the best interests of supporters".

The Celtic Trust have planned a socially distanced protest outside Parkhead before their game against Kilmarnock, confirming it would be “Covid-compliant".

READ MORE: Scottish FA welcome £55million sport bailout from Scottish Government

Protests have broken out at Parkhead in recent weeks after matches due to increasing frustrations among the Celtic support.

But Celtic have discouraged the socially-distanced protest from going ahead.

In a statement they said: "Following the announcement of a proposed gathering at Celtic Park this Sunday, December 13, ahead of our league game against Kilmarnock, the Club fully understands the concern and frustration amongst supporters following recent results and performances, but clearly, we do not believe staging an event of this kind is in the best interests of supporters, the team or the Club in general, particularly just prior to the match.

READ MORE: Celtic vs Lille LIVE | Neil Lennon makes several changes

"For important clarification, in the present circumstances and given the health risk of gatherings of any kind, the Club has not agreed to any gathering taking place. Celtic Football Club is not involved in the organisation of the proposed gathering.

"The Club is also duty-bound to point out that it has received legal and safety advice indicating that, if strict social distancing and applicable Scottish Guidance are not implemented, any such gathering would breach current legislation – something the Club would wish all supporters to be aware of.

"As is always the case, the Club is, of course, happy to engage with supporters and supporter groups to understand and discuss concerns, and the Club encourages supporters to raise their concerns with the Club directly. Indeed, following a recent request, we look forward to meeting The Celtic Trust next week."