Derek McInnes on Celtic v Rangers Fan Lockout: A Disappointment

Derek McInnes has branded the decision to lock out away fans from the remaining Celtic v Rangers league clashes this season as a disappointment, insisting derbies are “always better” with both supports inside the ground.

The Kilmarnock manager was asked for his reaction after it was confirmed there will be no away allocations for any SPFL meetings between the Glasgow rivals for the rest of the campaign. The move follows last season’s ugly scenes at Ibrox after a Scottish Cup tie between the clubs.

Rangers had proposed a reduced away allocation for the upcoming Premier Sports Cup tie at Ibrox next weekend. Celtic rejected that offer. Talks with the SPFL then led to the call to stage the league fixtures in front of home fans only.

McInnes first learned of the development as he prepared for his own weekend fixture.

“I noticed the news on the Sky ticker tape there,” he said at his Friday press conference. “First reaction is that it is disappointing that it has been made.

“Without commenting too much because I don't know the club's position on it at the moment, I think it is more appropriate that the club speaks on it.

“But it's always better when the opposition fans are allowed into a derby game.

“But whether that can be... there has still got to be behaviours met and obviously the decision has been made.

“I don't know, I haven't spoken to anyone at the club regarding that so I can't really comment any more than that.”

The Old Firm will go on without an away end. The argument over whether that really serves Scottish football is only just beginning.