The time to renew season tickets is just around the corner for Celtic fans and while the board will be lenient about the number of renewals, they may be in for a harsh surprise.
Celtic fans have been demonstrating against the board’s failures to tap into their cash reserves and strengthen the squad. There is also the ongoing disagreement with the Green Brigade and the refusal to allow them back into Celtic Park.
Recent financial reports have stated that Celtic are outperforming Premier League clubs, which probably leaves Dermot Desmond and co assuming that should be sufficient to satisfy supporters. However, if the league title goes to Hearts, or ends up at Ibrox, they will face a different reality.
Celtic fans will vote with their feet if they don’t secure the league
Hoops fans have been tolerant for years, even while the board have continued to test that patience more and more.
Missing out on the league title would be crushing in every sense for the Hoops. Not only would that mean missing out on Champions League due to the new coefficient rankings but the boasting from rivals would be too much to endure.
Traditionally, Celtic have a near 99 per cent renewal rate on season tickets, with a significant waiting list too but given the total chaos the club is in on and off the pitch, fans may be discouraged from renewing or purchasing.
The lack of investment over the years, and failure to establish a genuine connection with supporters, has left fans feeling neglected and unwanted by the club we cherish.
Even if it is only a couple thousand fans that choose not to renew, that is still a concerning figure. Attendances seem to be slowly decreasing, tickets are often available 24 hours before matches this season. Unlike other seasons, this feels more like a deliberate choice from supporters to abstain.
A new manager and summer signings may help bring some enthusiasm, but for the first time, it feels like supporters are leaning towards forfeiting their season tickets to deliver the ultimate message to the board.