Neil O’Donnell, the manager of a popular Celtic fan pub, was attacked last night by Ajax fans after the Celtic/Ajax Europa League match. The match was also marred by several scenes of violence by fans. The game ultimately ended 2-1 in Ajax’s favor and knocked Celtic out of the Europa League.
While it is uncertain why Hoops Bar, the pub managed by O’Donnell, was specifically attacked, it is being reported that many Glaswegians had locked their doors that night to avoid similar instances of fan-incited-violence. Mr. O’Donnell is currently in stable condition and awaiting surgery that will repair nerve damage he suffered to the face. He updated Facebook with the story and a photo. Just a heads up, the photo is a little rough.
This unsavory incident hearkens back to two years ago when clashes between fans were witnessed in Amsterdam after a Champions League match between the two teams and while unconfirmed, may be a sign of payback from a few Ajax fans. It is a stark reminder that while we call it the beautiful game, there is an incredibly ugly side that we can’t forget about.
At this time, neither club has issued a statement about this incident, or any of the reports of violence that evening. Whether or not there will be an investigation into these reports has yet to be seen, although it is expected.
