Celtic have issued fresh guidance to supporters in Rome for the Europa League tie with Lazio on Thursday night.
Supporters have been well briefed that many of the normal aspects of following the club in Europe should be avoided with the threat of attack from Lazio Ultras ever present.
However, warnings of a total alcohol ban have been allayed which should be good news for restaurants with thirsty fans looking to make the most of their trip to the Italian capital.
At lunchtime today Celtic updated their advice to fans:
– There will be restrictions on alcohol being sold in Rome, in particular in the historical parts of the city, and served in glass containers.
– Fans must not carry glass bottles/containers or cans on to the streets.
– Fans who turn up at the turnstiles in clear state of drunkenness might not be allowed in if they are perceived to be behaving in an aggressive or harassing manner, or if they appear to require medical attention. If the latter then they will be taken to one of the ambulances to be checked over.
– Buses will be available from Piazzale delle Canestre from 2pm and fans should make their way there throughout the afternoon. Indications are that fans should arrive at the stadium around two hours prior to kick-off.
– Fans will be able to take food into the stadium in paper or biodegradable plastic bags.
– Drinks will be on sale inside the stadium.
– There will be a hold-back at the end of the match, Police will decide on the length of time but this could be an hour or more.
– 41 shuttle buses will be made available to take supporters to the stadium and back to Termini station at the end of the match. Fans are also encouraged to arrange taxis to take them back to the city centre to avoid delays.
Celtic have been given an allocation of 9,000 tickets but a few thousand additional fans are expected to be in the city tomorrow.
Supporters have been arriving throughout today to take advantage of Celtic’s first ever UEFA match in Rome.
After beating Lazio 2-1 a fortnight ago hopes are high for Neil Lennon’s side who could qualify for the knock out stage if they repeat that scoreline in the Stadio Olympico.
