Brendan Rodgers Blames Rangers for Old Firm Away Fan Lockout

Rangers and Celtic: The Ongoing Debate Over Away Fans at Old Firm Matches

The Old Firm derbies between Rangers and Celtic are among the most fiercely contested matches in world football. However, the excitement of these clashes has been somewhat overshadowed recently by the issue of away fans being locked out. Brendan Rodgers, the Celtic manager, has been vocal about the situation, pointing fingers at Rangers for the current state of affairs.

Background: The Lockout of Away Fans

As it stands, there will be no visiting supporters at the first two league Old Firm fixtures of this season. This comes despite a previously agreed allocation of around five percent of stadium capacity for away fans. The agreement was struck in March, but necessary requirements have not been fulfilled, leading to this regrettable outcome for fans eager to witness the intense rivalry.

Brendan Rodgers' Perspective

Rodgers stated that the blame rests primarily with Rangers, asserting that Celtic has done its part to facilitate the agreement. "The club's job is to protect the support and if there's not the guarantee that come the second fixture our fans will be admitted, then it's only logical that you wouldn't reciprocate," he explained.

He emphasized that the situation should not be mischaracterized as merely a rivalry issue but instead a Rangers-centric problem that Celtic has been inadvertently drawn into. According to Rodgers, Celtic has invested significantly to ensure safety at the stadiums, a responsibility both clubs must uphold.

Moving Forward: Potential Solutions

Looking ahead, there's hope that future derbies will see the return of away fans. The SPFL has announced that from March 15 onwards, the allocation of tickets for away supporters would resume, contingent upon both clubs meeting safety requirements. This decision is pivotal for restoring the thrilling atmosphere of Old Firm games and ensuring fan engagement from both sides.

The Importance of Fan Engagement

Home and away supporters play a crucial role in creating the electric atmosphere that fans and players alike cherish during Old Firm matches. The absence of away fans detracts from the experience, not just for those seeking to cheer for their team, but also for the overall spectacle of the event.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding away fans in Old Firm games remains a pressing issue that requires attention from both Celtic and Rangers. As Rodgers suggested, finding a way to bring supporters back into these fixtures is vital for the clubs and their respective fan bases. Only time will tell if the upcoming matches can pave the way for a more inclusive future in the storied rivalry of Scottish football.

As fans, it’s essential to remember that both clubs must work together to uphold the spirit of football and the engagement of their supporters in a safe and welcoming environment.