Neil Lennon has urged the SPFL to delay the first Old Firm game of the season and ensure it’s not behind closed doors.
The Celtic gaffer believes it’s vital that fans are present at every derby game against Rangers this term with his side going for 10-in-a-row.
The Scottish Premiership campaign is scheduled to kick-off on August 1 with grounds empty as a result of the Covid-10 pandemic.
Clubs have even struck a deal with Sky TV where fans can use a virtual season ticket to watch matches.
But with the first Old Firm clash of the campaign at Celtic Park before the end of the year, Lennon wants the fixture pushed back.
And if he gets his wish, that would result in the mouth-watering prospect of four derbies in 2021 as Lennon and Steven Gerrard battle for the title.
As he looked ahead to the new season, Lennon said: “Should the first Old Firm game be pushed back? I think that’s what everyone would want.
“Everyone associated with the game would want it and so would the clubs. I’m sure the TV companies would want it as well.”
When asked whether Rangers having two home Old Firm games with fans, compared to Celtic’s one, would give the Ibrox side an advantage, Lennon said: “I don’t know. If that’s the way it has to be, so be it.
“But I do think the authorities will look at it and try to push it back.
“It would give us more of a chance of getting punters back to the games.”
