Ross Desmond Urged to Seek Reconciliation Ahead of Celtic AGM

Chris Sutton believes Ross Desmond should attend Celtic’s upcoming annual general meeting and help prevent a repeat of last year’s confrontation. In his column, Sutton argues that Desmond should arrive ready to make peace rather than provoke another clash with shareholders. The previous AGM ended amid uproar after a statement delivered on behalf of Dermot Desmond. A proposed resolution called for Ross Desmond to apologise, but Celtic’s board rejected it, saying it would not apologise for allowing an authorised shareholder representative to speak. Sutton notes that an apology cannot simply be demanded and questions whether Ross Desmond would offer one voluntarily. Still, Sutton says an in-person appearance could shape the mood in the room. He suggests Desmond acknowledge that events went badly a year ago, while urging shareholders to remain composed, put their questions to the board and give directors the chance to respond. Sutton also says Celtic executives Michael Nicholson and Brian Wilson should provide information about the club’s direction and recognise that supporters have concerns. Those concerns, in Sutton’s view, extend beyond the tension at the AGM. He says Celtic have regressed and that their repeated struggles in Europe remain a central issue, despite the club’s strong domestic record. He argues that a stronger version of Celtic would replace departing players in time for crucial matches, including Champions League qualifiers, and would have a clear recruitment approach. Sutton’s appeal is for a more conciliatory meeting, but he also expects difficult questions about the club’s performance. He says the board should not rely solely on past trophies to answer supporters who want to know whether Celtic are doing everything possible to compete at the highest level.