HAVING commentated on European club football for more than two decades, I have seen what Ultras, as certain fans' groups call themselves, can bring to a club.

I have witnessed first-hand on many occasions, in Italy in particular, the lift which Ultras can give to a team on the park and a club in general.

In the last few years, The Green Brigade has emerged at Celtic and there is no question they have improved the atmosphere at Parkhead and at grounds across Scotland.

Their choreographed singing is a sight to behold at times and greatly enhances the acoustics.

Their ability to raise the mood at a game is quite incredible. Sadly, they increasingly have strayed down the wrong path in recent seasons.

Some may dispute that statement. But I have no doubts the vast majority of Celtic supporters want no part of any political agenda.

The banners displayed before a vital Champions League group game with AC Milan at Celtic Park in November were highly unfortunate.

And the scenes at the SPFL Premiership game against Motherwell at Fir Park back in December were shameful.

I appreciate The Green Brigade have denied responsibility for the latter, but there remains a possibility some of their members were involved.

Very few outwith The Green Brigade argued against the club breaking them up as a consequence of that incident and other infractions. Now, though, they have re-emerged. Around 250 of them appeared in a different section of Celtic Park in the league game with St Johnstone on Sunday.

Neil Lennon thanked them afterwards for making a difference to the atmosphere in a game his side won 3-0 to maintain their comfortable lead at the top of the table.

Personally, I had no issues with their appearance.

Everybody deserves a second chance. But, with any luck, they have learned lessons from their past indiscretions. And, hopefully, The Green Brigade can stick to supporting the team, to getting behind the players, from now on.

If they want to get involved in politics, I would suggest they go along to Holyrood rather than Celtic Park.

I do not think that football stadiums are the places to express political views. If they feel strongly about something, they should lobby their MSPs.

They they have to learn to police themselves and keep in check what is being sung.

They should remember what they are actually at the game to do. Support the Celtic team on the park. They can be one of the club's biggest assets. It's up to them.