Scottish FA let Rangers off; Celtic could have had big derby advantage

By John McGinley

October 12, 2020

The Scottish FA have failed to punish Rangers manager Steven Gerrard, choosing not to ban him from the touchline for the upcoming match against Celtic.

Gerrard had allegedly breached SFA rule number 72 following comments about referee Kevin Clancy and his decision not to show a red card to a Dundee United player for a tackle on Alfredo Morelos.

However, after a hearing earlier today, the footballing authority has issued a ‘Not Proved’ verdict.

It’s unclear why they’ve come to that decision when the Ibrox manager’s comments were widely publicised in the Scottish media.

Steven Gerrard after a defeat to Celtic / (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

In truth, it never seemed likely Gerrard would be ruled out of the high-profile upcoming derby.

Celtic never get that kind of luck.

Neil Lennon likely hasn’t given the issue a second thought regardless.

The ethos at Lennoxtown is always putting a focus on things that the squad and coaching staff can control, rather than looking at what others are doing.

The Bhoys have enough problems during the international break with positive COVID-19 tests and self-isolation dramas taking their toll on the manager’s available players.

It’s going to take a big effort from the manager to alter his plans and find a winning blend against an in-form top-flight outfit.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon / (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

However, Celtic have won the first derby of the season in each of last four campaigns, so anybody downplaying our chances should reconsider.

The Bhoys will be giving everything on Saturday despite our problems and the lack of crowds.

Gerrard being present on the touchline doesn’t change that.

In other news, Patrick Roberts has completed a loan move to Middlesbrough.