Neil Lennon has warned his Celtic players that they will be sacked instantly if they are found guilty of any form of discrimination.

The issue of racism is back at the top of the agenda in England and the Professional Footballers' Association, after criticism from some leading players, has made a six-point action plan which includes making racism-related offences punishable by the sack and the introduction of a scheme to boost the number of black coaches and managers.

Asked about the football version of the "Rooney rule", which was introduced by the NFL in the United States in 2003 to ensure qualified ethnic minority coaches are on interview lists for job vacancies, the Celtic boss said: "I don't have a problem with that at all. We are an open club and we have been since the club was formed 125 years ago.

"I have a zero tolerance rule. I have spoken to the players about this before. Any sign of any sort of racism against colour, religion, background will be an instant sackable offence.

"I don't have to really speak to my players about that. The spirit and respect they have for each other is tremendous. At this club we see everyone as equal."