Tom English Attacks Celtic Supporters Over Away Day Song BooK

A plot surfaced via BBC Pundit Tom English during the weekend that saw Celtic easily defeat Livingston 3-0 and guarantee that they would be in control going into the much awaited Glasgow derby. Despite the team’s outstanding performance in applying pressure and winning vital points in the title fight, BBC pundit Tom English focused on a different facet of matchday life.

English brought up a subject that has long been divisive for both Celtic and football in general when he expressed his shock at a small portion of the Celtic fan base. Some in the crowd chose to sing songs that supported the IRA during the celebrations that followed Celtic’s first goal against Livingston. English used his platform to express his worries, saying, “Celtic break the deadlock against bottom place Livingston. Celtic fans respond by singing about the IRA…” On X, English wrote.

Celtic break the deadlock against bottom place Livingston. Celtic fans respond by singing about the IRA…

— Tom English (@TEnglishSport) March 31, 2024

With a preemptive, “Cue ‘WHAT ABOUT THEM!!!’,” he acknowledged the complexities of the situation and the strong feelings it arouses in response to the counterarguments. English, however, emphasised the significance of concentrating on the larger yearning for peace—a sentiment that is shared by many, including ex-IRA members. In addition to criticising the actions of a minority within the fandom, he questioned the appropriateness of their chosen celebration in his commentary.

“I know that this is a very small percentage of the overall Celtic support, but that percentage multiplies away from home. Score a goal and celebrate by singing about a war in a place where nearly everybody wants peace, including so many former IRA people”

Examining the reasons behind Celtic supporters’ singing of IRA songs is akin to delving into a convoluted fusion of politics, history, and identity. All of it stems from a deep sense of kinship with the Irish nationalist movement, which has its roots in Celtic history. In addition to being a football team, Brother Walfrid founded the club in 1887 with the goal of establishing a representation of Irish Catholic heritage in Scotland.

For many fans, Celtic represents the tenacity and aspirations of their community far more than just a sports team. They remember the struggle for independence and embrace and honour their rich Irish identity through singing these songs.

It binds supporters to a cause that is deeply ingrained in their heritage. Football games in this setting become more than just contests; they become stages for presenting enduring social ties and historical narratives.

However, given the tragic past of The Troubles and its ongoing effects on victims and their communities, this tradition is not without controversy. Although there are those who believe that maintaining cultural memory and identity is crucial, it is indisputable that these songs have the capacity to rekindle old grudges or further divide society. Therefore, comprehending the custom of singing IRA songs during Celtic games involves striking a careful balance between acknowledging one’s right to cultural expression and taking into account the larger implications for peace and harmony in a historically volatile area.

The Easter Rising was celebrated with a stadium-wide tifo displayed by the Green Brigade and Celtic Ultras to kick off the day.

In other news, Chris Sutton and Kris Boyd Dispute Over Penalty Denial