Rangers v Celtic: Chris Jack shares financial issue with announcement made
Chris Jack claims that the issue of away fans allocation at Old Firm derbies had become a financial issue for Rangers and Celtic.
The SPFL announced on 29 March that there will be away fans for the derby games at Ibrox as well as Parkhead from next season.
That means that the two remaining clashes in the 2023/24 season will remain as they are without any away fans.
He told Rangers Review on 29 March: “It would have been better for all concerned had the new agreement come into force this season rather than next.
“Just imagine the cacophony of noise and colour that would have greeted the players at Ibrox and Parkhead during two fixtures that will go some way to determining the winner of the Premiership title race. Instead, both of those matches will be played in front of home supporters only. Time will tell if that proves to be decisive or not.
“In that regard, this solution is not perfect. It was never going to be, though. This was not just a football issue, it had become a financial one.
“As soon as both clubs sold season tickets in the areas where their rivals once sat twice a season, it became almost impossible to envisage a scenario that would result in 8,000-strong away supports on derby day.”
Great news for Rangers and Celtic
The resolution of the Old Firm ticket allocation issue marks a significant step forward for the two Glasgow clubs, as well as Scottish football as a whole.
By agreeing to provide around five per cent of their stadium for away supporters during SPFL matches between the two clubs starting from the 2024/25 season, both teams have demonstrated a willingness to compromise and prioritise the fan experience.
This decision not only enhances the atmosphere and intensity of the matches but also strengthens the Old Firm brand, which relies heavily on the passion and rivalry between supporters.
While not perfect, this solution acknowledges the importance of fan participation in shaping the essence of the Old Firm encounters and sets a positive precedent for future collaborations between the clubs and league authorities.
There’s always excitement for when these two behemoths of Scottish football square off but it’s going to be a completely different vibe next season.
In other Rangers news, European league giants have started their summer transfer activity and have launched a bid for a first-team Gers player with an update shared on his decision.
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