Referee set for first Celtic outing since controversial opening VAR fixture

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Nick Walsh will take charge of Celtic’s first Scottish Premiership clash at Parkhead of 2023 against Kilmarnock on Saturday.

The Bhoys will be taking part in their second fixture of the New Year this weekend after maintaining their nine-point lead at the top.

Derek McInnes’ Kilmarnock travels to town for the first time since their recent promotion at the first time of asking from the Scottish Championship.

Ahead of Saturday’s game, the referee and other officials have been confirmed as Ange Postecoglou’s side aims to get back to winning ways.

The SFA confirmed that Nick Walsh will take charge of this one and will be joined by assistants Sean Carr and Andy Milne. Peter Stuart will also be the fourth official.

Fresh off the back of more VAR drama at Ibrox on Monday, Kevin Clancy will be in charge of the technology this weekend and will be assisted by Andrew McWilliam.

Walsh has already officiated the Hoops on several occasions this season, including the opening game of the campaign against Aberdeen and the 4-0 win over Rangers.

His last Celtic outing was a controversial one after taking charge of the Bhoys’ first game with VAR in the 4-3 win over Hearts at Tynecastle in October.

He has had more experience since then using the new technology, so the Celtic boss will be hoping there are fewer talking points at Parkhead versus Kilmarnock.

VAR set to be in the focus once more as Celtic hierarchy seek clarification.

After yet more VAR controversy at Ibrox earlier this week, I am sure the technology will once again be in the focus of the pundits and media.

Walsh’s last Celtic game was only the second fixture with VAR, and it has proved to be somewhat of a disaster for the SFA after its introduction in October.

Ultimately, it has led the Celtic hierarchy to seek clarification from Hampden officials over some of the decisions made, with all 12 Scottish Premiership sides feeling the brunt of the early ‘teething issues’.

As mentioned, Ange Postecoglou and his players will certainly be hoping for less controversy as they return to Celtic Park for the first time in 2023.

This weekend’s game is the first of a doubleheader against Killie, who the Hoops will also be facing a week on Saturday in the Viaplay Cup semi-final at Hampden.

In other news, Fringe player could be set for Celtic opportunity as supporters await injury update.