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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Macdonald

Celtic hit back at Rangers away allocation dispute as they cite 'safety concerns'

Celtic have confirmed that there will be no away supporters at the upcoming Scottish Premiership clash against Rangers, citing "safety concerns".

Glasgow's big two are set to collide at Parkhead in what will likely be a huge match in the title race.

And Brendan Rodgers' side will have the home advantage with no visiting fans being present.

Celtic have also stated that they "welcome the opportunity to resolve the issues".

A club statement read: "Given the recent serious safety and matchday issues which our fans have experienced at fixtures at Ibrox and Celtic Park, Celtic's position on this matter has been very clear.  

"Celtic welcomes the opportunity to seek to resolve these important issues, and it was a hearing for which the club was very well-prepared.

"We are pleased that the sub-committee recognised the importance of safety and matchday experience issues in considering the question of a reasonable allocation for both fixtures.  

"While respecting the ongoing process, Celtic stands by its decision not to allocate any tickets for away supporters for the match on December 30.

"Celtic will continue to focus on the importance of safety and matchday experience issues as we look to address reasonable allocations at Celtic Park and Ibrox from next year, in a responsible manner."

It will be the fourth league meeting in a row between the two sides in which away fans will not be present.

This comes off the back of away allocations being reduced, firstly at Ibrox and then Parkhead, at the beginning of the 2018-19 season to just 700 fans.

SPFL rules state that “a reasonable number” of away tickets are made available, in agreement with the opposition.

However, the rules do not clarify a mandatory minimum allocation for visiting supporters.

The SPFL are able to make a final decision on the outcome in the event of a dispute.

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