Celtic's social media activity in the aftermath of Queen Elizabeth II's death certainly made them stand out from the pack. Whereas all other British football clubs paid tribute to the monarch, the Glasgow club's accounts were noticeably silent. They also did not change their avatar to black and white image.
Of course, the reasons for this are well known. Celtic are a club rooted in the republican movement, with supporters on both sides of the Irish Sea not exactly huge fans of the British monarchy.
While their domestic game was called off last weekend, their supporters would make their feelings well known during their Champions League game against Shakhtar Donetsk in Poland earlier this week.
Celtic fans in Warsaw tonight with a ‘f*ck the crown’ banner pic.twitter.com/3go15DAfiZ
— Casual Ultra (@thecasualultra) September 14, 2022
The reaction to this from the usual media outlets has been predictable, with many criticising the supporters for this message.
Jeremy Kyle slams Celtic fans for crown banner
Jeremy Kyle, someone not exactly known for his well-balanced opinions, was one of those to take umbrage with the banner. Appearing on TalkTV, he labelled the actions of the Celtic fans involved as 'disgusting'.
Jeremy Kyle hits out at Celtic fans for their anti-monarchy protest during a Champions League game.
"There's a difference between protesting and putting up disgusting banners and shouting obscenities." @jkyleofficial pic.twitter.com/JSvdY99Im5— TalkTV (@TalkTV) September 16, 2022
We watched what happened in Scotland. Celtic fans have been slammed for absolutely the most offensive banner which was basically slagging off the Queen's death, let me be honest.
In contrast, there was a quite elaborate tribute from Rangers fans at the weekend. Organising it must have been amazing but the impact was wonderful.
What I didn't understand was some Celtic fans being disrespectful to the late monarch and Rangers fans not so...
That was disgusting wasn't it? Why did it happen?..
I am amazed that the stewards didn't get involved, I'm amazed that someone involved with Celtic at that game did not do more...
There is a difference between protest and putting up obscene banners at a time like this.
Celtic will face St Mirren away from home on Sunday, where we could well see further banners such as this one on show.
That would surely go down well with certain sections of the British media.