Scottish Government Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf has confirmed that Sunday’s match between Celtic and Rangers will go ahead as planned at Celtic Park.
As recently as yesterday there were doubts about the game, with reports suggesting that authorities were waiting on Rangers v Slavia Prague passing without supporter incident outside Ibrox.
However, in a statement released this afternoon [Clyde 1], Humza Yousaf confirmed the fixture, saying: “Ministers and officials have had extensive engagement with both clubs, the SPFL, Police Scotland and Glasgow City Council ahead of the game.
“Celtic and Rangers have strongly emphasised to their supporters throughout this week that they must stay at home and not gather.
“I welcome their positive and constructive approach to working with us to ensure the game can safely take place behind closed doors.”
In became clear over the last few days that the likelihood was the game would be going ahead.
However, it is nice to have official confirmation of that fact.
Rangers visit crucial for Celtic
Celtic’s preparations for the fixture are unlikely to have been impacted. John Kennedy and his coaching staff will have spent the time at Lennoxtown this week assuming the kick-off will happen.
It’s an important match for the Bhoys, with Rangers still unbeaten in the league and the Hoops hoping to crush their dreams of having an invincible league season.
Picking up a derby victory would send a strong message that Celtic are capable of rebounding and pushing on in the latter stages of the season, with an eye to next year’s title race.
The match takes place at 12:00pm on Sunday. It will be broadcast live on Sky Sports and on the Pass to Paradise service for season ticket holders.
In other news, Celtic have shown solidarity with an anti-racism statement today.
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