Diouf spat won't sour fans relationship

Last updated : 14 March 2003 By Chris Maxwell
Diouf spat towards a Celtic fan after receiving what seemed to be an innocuous pat on the head. Diouf's actions led to two Celtic fans entering the field of play. Both fans were arrested, and later released, for their offence.

Despite the obvious frictions such an event could cause, Toner believes that the friendly links between the two sets of fans will continue to flourish.

Toner said: "I am sure the authorities will deal with him in the appropriate manner. The Celta Vigo player [Peter Luccin] who spat at John Hartson in a previous round was banned for four matches.

"I wouldn't like to think the incident would sour the relationship between the fans. At the end of the day, there wasn't a problem between the supporters - it was one player who maybe doesn't seem to appreciate the relationship between the fans.

"I certainly don't think it will cause any problems and am sure we will be welcomed down there next week and in the future. There has been a long-standing mutual respect between the fans and I'm sure that will continue."