Scottish Tories leader and top flight linesman Douglas Ross is confident next weekend’s derby at Parkhead WILL go ahead and without trouble.
Politicians are set to meet with both clubs as well as police and Glasgow City Council later on Friday to discuss the forthcoming Old Firm clash which has been thrust into the spotlight after crowds of Rangers fans broke lockdown rules to party in George Square last weekend.
Fears have been raised that the fixture could be cancelled to avoid further breaches with Justice Minister Humza Yousaf warning: “If government cannot get assurance that we won't see a repeat of such scenes, then every option will be considered and that would include deferring the game.”
But Tory leader Ross - who has officiated as an assistant referee at a number of Old Firm matches - gave his backing to the game going ahead without incident.
He said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to be appointed to several Old Firm matches and whether they were at Celtic Park, Ibrox or Hampden I have always felt the club treated them with the utmost respect and huge professionalism in terms of keeping everyone safe and everything in order so the focus can be on football.
“I’m sure despite some of the incidents which have happened throughout this season that the message will be heard loud and clear by spectators and the fans that they do need to stay away.
“I hope that the match will go ahead and safely and we can complete this season of the Scottish Premiership.”
A final decision on whether the game - scheduled for Sunday, March 21, goes ahead is expected early next week.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said earlier this week the government couldn’t “turn a blind eye” to the breach of lockdown.
