Chris Sutton perplexed by what’s been said ahead of Rangers vs Celtic showdown
Chris Sutton is never too far away from controversy when it comes to Celtic and Rangers.
Sutton regularly tries to wind up Rangers supporters on social media, given his ties to their Glasgow rivalries.
Rangers battered Queen’s Park 8-0 in the Scottish Cup last time out to set up a quarter-final contest with the Hoops.
However, that has caused a new debate on an issue that has plagued the Old Firm derby for the majority of its recent history.
What is the latest Rangers vs Celtic controversy?
Celtic usually get a reduced allocation when they come to Rangers, but Martin O’Neill has asked for a full allocation for the clash.
He has put pressure on the authorities ahead of the meeting, as Scottish Cup rules allow 20 per cent of tickets for away sides, which would be 10,000 visiting fans in Govan.
He said: “I don’t know the club’s stance, but if you take me out of the club at this minute, just being a Celtic supporter, I would want all the tickets we can get, the allocation that’s available to us under the rules. I assume that would be forthcoming.”
Former Hoops striker Sutton agrees with the Parkhead manager’s stance, he is perplexed over the debate over allocations.
Taking to X on 10 February, he said: “Not sure what the fuss is about r.e Celtic’s ticket allocation at Ibrox.
If the Scottish Cup rules allow up to 20% of the stadium’s capacity, then that’s what it should be.
“It would be good to get back how it used to be in the league as well…”
Why was Old Firm ticket allocation reduced?
Celtic used to bring around 7,500 supporters to away matches with the Gers, but things changed in May 2018.
Both sides cited an increased demands for season tickets as the cause for the change, and slashed allocations to 1,000 fans.
There were numerous games played with no away supporters before a five per cent allocation with extra security was allowed in March 2025.
A game like the Old Firm, with the intensity and rivalry behind it, needs the fans to be in the stadium, and to provide a raucous atmosphere that represents what it means to both parties.
Of course, safety and security are paramount, but if we can get matches with decent away followings, it would be much better for the Scottish game as a whole, both on a domestic and a global level.
Given how close the title race is at the moment, it will make it an even better spectacle for all involved, and those watching on from afar, and be a better advert for the game.
It remains to be seen what happens, but O’Neill’s pleas may ultimately benefit both clubs, and make the games even more enjoyable and meaningful.