Nicola Sturgeon said Celtic have questions to answer on their trip to Dubai as Scotland enters a full lockdown once more.

The club has been criticised by some for players and staff being pictured at a hotel in the middle east.

The First Minister was asked about the club’s trip and if it was within the rules after it was reported the club said it had been ‘signed off’ by the Scottish Government.

READ MORE: Celtic Dubai trip during Covid pandemic slammed by Prof. Hugh Pennington

She said at her daily briefing: “On Celtic, I saw their statement yesterday. I’ve had other things to think about.

“We gave advice to the SFA about rules around elite training camps in November. It’s not our role to sign off.

Glasgow Times: Neil Lennon's side are currently in Dubai Neil Lennon's side are currently in Dubai

“The rules have been that elite sports can go overseas for training camps it it’s in the context of training for competition.

READ MORE: Celtic hit back at Scottish government - and reveal Holyrood approved Dubai trip back on November 12

“They are overseas at a training camp but that not the question. What is the purpose of being there? I’ve seen from the club its more about R&R.

“I think there are things that should be looked into.”

Ms Sturgeon added :”Elite sports have been in a privileged position.  As long as that is the case it’s really important they don’t abuse it. That applies to Celtic as anyone else.”

A Celtic spokesman said last night: "The training camp was arranged a number of months ago and approved by all relevant footballing authorities and Scottish Government through the Joint Response Group on November 12, 2020.

“The team travelled prior to any new lockdown being in place, to a location exempt from travel restrictions. 

“The camp, the same one as we have undertaken for a number of years has been fully risk assessed.

“If the club had not received Scottish Government approval, then we would not have travelled.”