Celtic vs Rangers Old Firm derby clash at ‘very real’ risk of being called off
There is a ‘very real’ risk that Celtic’s upcoming clash with Rangers in what is expected to be a fiery and hostile Old Firm derby could be called off due to fears over fan behaviour.
Rangers ended their decade-long wait to win the Scottish Premiership title last weekend with thousands of fans subsequently flooding to Ibrox and George Square to celebrate the win, breaching coronavirus lockdown rules.
Now fears have emerged that similar scenes could occur during the Old Firm derby, which is played at Celtic Park on March 21, and Scottish authorities are considering cancelling the match as a result.
First Minister Nicolas Sturgeon said she would need ‘assurances’ before confirming that derby could go ahead.
Speaking in the Scottish parliament, she said: ‘The behaviour witnessed at the weekend was disgraceful and selfish.
‘In terms of future fixtures, there are a variety of discussions happening over the course of this week, including one between myself and the chief constable.
‘We will report back on those in due course and certainly before the scheduled Old Firm match on March 21.’
According to The Scottish Sun, police are concerned of a repeat of Sunday’s lockdown-breaking celebrations – and not just from Rangers fans, with Celtic supporters potentially being out in force too.
Such are the concerns, there is now said to be a ‘very real possibility’ that the match at Parkhead will not go ahead, particularly with intel already suggesting fans from both clubs intend to gather at their respective stadiums.
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard was asked about the speculation surrounding the Old Firm derby ahead his side’s Europa League tie on Thursday evening, and he is very keen for the game to go ahead.
‘I think I’ve already addressed this yesterday. I’m here to talk about Slavia and the challenge on the horizon,’ said the Liverpool legend.
‘I’ll let those conversations continue with the powers that be. That’s above my head at this football club.
‘I’ll continue to relay messages that I have previously and let’s hope these games go ahead.’
MORE : Celtic players should snub guard of honour for Rangers, says John Hartson
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