ITV has issued an apology to Celtic fans after a message on the broadcaster's Twitter page appeared to belittle the team.

The tweet appeared following the Champions League draw for the group stage, reading "Bye bye Celtic. They've drawn Barcelona, Benfica and Spartak Moscow".

Celtic manager Neil Lennon took offence at the remark, replying with "I think ITV owe us an apology".

ITV officials have now issued an official statement retracting the remarks and apologising to the clubs and its supporters.

"To Celtic fans out there - we mean no disrespect. An ill-advised way of us saying we think you've got a very tough draw. Apologies," said the statement.

Celtic's first Champions League group match takes place on September 19 when they take on Benfica at home.