The former Celtic striker fears another confrontation could derail the AGM, while shareholders demand accountability from a hierarchy under increasing pressure.

Frank McAvennie has delivered a timely warning ahead of Celtic’s forthcoming Annual General Meeting, and I believe every shareholder who wants genuine accountability should pay attention.

The former Celtic striker has heard a rumour concerning the meeting and fears that another confrontation could provide the board with an opportunity to bring proceedings to a premature conclusion.

After the disgraceful breakdown of last year’s AGM, surely that cannot be allowed to happen again?

McAvennie Issues a Stark Warning

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, McAvennie urged supporters to make their voices heard without allowing proceedings to descend into chaos.

“I hope the fans go down and let whoever it is speak and then get their point across. Don’t start shouting.”

It is sensible advice.

McAvennie has not revealed the substance of his rumour, and there is no verified evidence of any planned disruption.

But his wider concern is entirely understandable.

Last year’s AGM descended into uproar after Ross Desmond accused sections of the Celtic support of being bullies.

Peter Lawwell subsequently brought proceedings to an end, leaving shareholders without the opportunity to complete their questioning of the board.

That cannot become an acceptable precedent.

Celtic Shareholders Deserve Answers

McAvennie believes the Celtic hierarchy has failed to appreciate the depth of supporter frustration.

And frankly, I struggle to disagree.

The Celtic Trust has already proposed formal resolutions demanding a strategic plan, a review of supporter security arrangements and an apology over Ross Desmond’s intervention.

These are serious matters requiring serious answers.

They cannot be brushed aside with carefully rehearsed statements or another confrontation that conveniently ends the meeting.

Shareholders are entitled to challenge the people entrusted with running their football club.

That is accountability, not intimidation.

The Board Must Not Escape Scrutiny

There is understandable anger surrounding Celtic’s European performances, recruitment decisions and deteriorating relationship with supporters.

But anger must be channelled intelligently.

If shareholders want the board held to account, the strongest possible approach is to remain composed, insist on answers and refuse to be distracted.

McAvennie’s warning should also be heard inside the boardroom.

The directors have a responsibility to conduct a meaningful AGM, engage respectfully and address legitimate criticism.

They cannot demand respectful behaviour from supporters while treating difficult questions as an inconvenience.

Celtic’s AGM Must Deliver Accountability

For me, this meeting represents an opportunity for Celtic to begin repairing a relationship that has suffered enormous damage.

But that requires honesty from both sides.

Supporters must make their arguments impossible to dismiss.

And the board must finally demonstrate that it is prepared to listen.

Because another Celtic AGM ending without proper scrutiny would represent a failure of accountability.

The shareholders deserve answers. This time, they must get them.