Police probe Diouf spat

The Senegalese star appeared to spit into a section of the home fans after falling into the crowd in the closing stages of the 1-1 draw.

The incident sparked an angry reaction from a number of Celtic supporters in the crowd.

Two Celtic fans were arrested following the incident, but were released without charge shortly afterwards.

Strathclyde Police said an investigation had begun into the behaviour of the 22-year-old striker during the 1-1 draw.

Superintendent Kevin Smith said police did not speak to the player after the game, but added: "He is the subject of an investigation. There have been complaints and television coverage and we have spoken to two people involved."

Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier said Diouf had apologised to him for the incident and revealed that the former Lens man will face a hefty club fine for the offence.

"I didn't like what he did, it is not acceptable in any way," said Houllier.

"I didn't see it myself but our goalkeeper coach Joe Corrigan said he saw Diouf in the crowd and someone slapped him on the head. Diouf has said sorry to me.

"It was a shame that the incident cast a shadow over the performance of my team, whatever the provocation.

"The player has apologised for his reaction. It was totally inappropriate whatever the provocation.

"He should not have responded the way he did. Liverpool do not condone this act in any way and will deal with it internally."

It is not the first time that Diouf has found himself under a police investigation for an alleged spitting incident.

In November West Ham fans alleged that Diouf had spat at them, but after Police investigated the claim they decided to take no action.