The Scottish FA has awarded its first-ever National Club Licensing Platinum Award to Celtic after continuous improvement was shown at various areas of the club.

To receive the honour clubs must meet a series of standards and procedures as set out by the Scottish FA Club Licensing system. These guidelines are encompassed by a National and UEFA regulatory system with specific references to Stadium Facilities, First Team Football, Youth Football and Legal, administration and finance practices.

Clubs are graded from entry level, Bronze, Silver and Gold and only in exceptional cases is the Platinum Award granted.

Scottish FA Chief Executive Stewart Regan said: "The Scottish FA are extremely pleased to be handing out our first-ever Platinum Award to Celtic. As a club they have shown a real commitment to youth football and are continually striving for the highest level – particularly with regards to their Youth Academy.

"I am confident that more Scottish clubs will be joining Celtic in achieving this exceptional award in the years ahead."

Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell added: “ Celtic aims at all times to be a world class football Club in everything we do and this award is recognition of the high standards of governance across many areas, which the Club has met for some time.”