Duffy frustrated by lack of preparation

Morton’s preparations for their William Hill Scottish Cup quarter-final clash with Celtic have been severely hit by the weather, according to manager Jim Duffy.

Heavy snow and strong winds throughout Scotland have caused severe disruption to the road and rail networks, but the game at Celtic Park is set to go ahead today.

Celtic got through a training session at Parkhead on Friday, but Duffy’s men were left frustrated and just about managed to have a kickabout ahead of their biggest game of the season.

“No players could get out and we were told quite categorically not to travel, so we didn’t do anything on Wednesday,” the Morton boss told the club website.

“On Thursday, a few players could manage to get out but unfortunately we couldn’t get any facilities because our normal place was closed so we didn’t get to do any training.

“We managed to get a little bit of fresh air and blow off the cobwebs today which was bitingly cold, but it was important to get the players in a group together before the match against Celtic.”

Meanwhile, Morton chief executive Warren Hawke has called for the match to be postponed as he fears fans will risk their lives to make the game.

Hawke told Morton’s website: “We have to look at every single aspect. Supporter safety has to be key and I don’t think anyone can guarantee that at this moment in time and I fear for a lot of Morton supporters trying to get to this game.”

The governing body’s interim chief executive Andrew McKinlay added: “Any supporter who does decide to travel is urged to do so with caution and consult all relevant public transport and travel bodies before embarking on any journey.”

The weather has hit Morton boss Jim Duffy’s preparations.