AN East End politician has warned football fans to stay away from Parkhead amid fears supporters may gather for the upcoming Old Firm match. 

John Mason, whose Shettleston constituency includes the Celtic stadium, said: “It seems there is an element of both Rangers and Celtic fans who consider themselves above the law.”

His warning comes as were circulating on social media suggesting there could be a gathering of Celtic and Rangers fans outside the East End stadium on March 21 for the showdown between the two rivals. 

Rangers fans celebrated their club effectively clinching the Scottish Premier League title on Sunday in scenes that were described as “disgraceful” by one of the country’s top police officers. 

Mr Mason added: “I would certainly urge against any more gathering of football fans as we have seen this weekend and previously at Celtic Park, calling for Neil Lennon’s resignation. 

“I am hoping that recent gatherings have been largely spontaneous and will not be repeated in the coming weeks. I would appeal to fans to think of those whose health could be seriously damaged by any further outbreaks of Covid.

Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said: “The behaviour which we saw at the weekend was disgraceful and I utterly condemn the individuals who chose to completely disregard the coronavirus regulations, putting both the wider community and our officers at risk.”

Fans were gathered in George Square in defiance of strict Covid guidelines banning large groups from meeting outdoors. 

A number of arrests were made and there were numerous reports of anti-social behaviour, including fireworks being set off and memorial benches being trashed. 

Rangers FC was approached for comment.