Celtic face scrutiny after alleged fan assault on Hearts captain Shankland
Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland was allegedly assaulted by Celtic supporters during a chaotic pitch invasion that marred the Scottish Premiership title decider.
The fallout from the final-day fixture continues to grow after new footage emerged of turbulent scenes following the final whistle at Celtic Park.
The Glasgow club secured the league title in dramatic fashion, knocking the visitors off the summit of the table for the first time in 250 days.
Title decider descends into chaos
The Scottish international striker had initially given his side the lead in the 43rd minute.
A controversial Arne Engels equaliser and a Daizen Maeda strike subsequently put the hosts ahead.
Callum Osmand sealed the victory in the 98th minute, prompting thousands of home supporters to breach the perimeter and enter the field of play.
The visiting squad were immediately forced from the pitch to protect their own safety.
Condemnation from football authorities
Footage circulating on social media appears to show the 28-year-old forward being targeted and physically confronted by individuals within the crowd.
Other backroom staff and squad members were reportedly goaded during the mayhem.
Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett has already spoken out regarding the incident, while the Scottish FA face mounting pressure to launch a full investigation.
Any confirmation of an attack on an opposing player could result in severe disciplinary consequences for the newly crowned champions.
Pundits react to shameful scenes
Television pundits James McFadden and Chris Sutton addressed the alarming situation during their immediate post-match broadcast.
McFadden stressed the importance of player safety, while noting that the vast majority of the home crowd actively booed the pitch invaders.
Sutton offered a more provocative assessment of the afternoon’s events.
The fans that invaded the pitch were lucky they didn’t get a thump or two.
Chris Sutton
The authorities must now determine the appropriate course of action following a deeply controversial end to the domestic season.
