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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Rangers CEO Bisgrove details first talks with Celtic chief Nicholson

James Bisgrove has opened up on his first discussions with Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson since taking on the role at Rangers.

The former head of marketing has stepped into the CEO position at Ibrox after Stewart Robertson stepped down.

And Bisgrove has quickly revealed his intention to open dialogue with key stakeholders in Scottish football, be it the SPFL, fellow clubs or broadcast partners.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Bisgrove revealed he has already been in contact with Celtic chief Nicholson.

He explained: "I spoke to Michael at the last Old  Firm game when Celtic were here.

"Michael congratulated me on the position and we had some words in the director's box and it was very civilised, very cordial and I’m sure our words will continue as I transition into the new role."

One huge issue Bisgrove faces in his role is the matter of away allocations in matches between Rangers and Celtic.

Now visiting supporters have been allowed in the recent two league matches between the clubs.

But Bisgrove has suggested a return for away sections of around 800 could be in place for next season - however, he downplayed talks of a return of traditional 7,000-strong visiting crowds at Ibrox or Celtic Park.

On the matter, Bisgrove commented: "As we’ve now again sold out our season tickets again for next season which is phenomenal – 45,000 season tickets – the opportunity for next season is in the corner of the Govan West stand which means the maximum we can do is the 700-800.

"But that’s subject to what the rest of the stakeholders bring to that conversation and we’ll see where it goes thereafter."

On the return to full stand allocation he added: "I think there’s a long way to go before that’s a realistic opportunity or consideration.

"To manage expectations then I would say that looks unlikely but we need to take it one step at a time.

"There are so many considerations in terms of the security operation getting two sets of supporters getting in and out of both stadiums. We want to make sure if our supporters go to parkhead they’re protected and take our responsibility here so we have to be guided by the authorities and the clubs will also have a voice.

"As a minimum we’re going to be around the table and have dialogue with Michael [Nicholson] and Police Scotland over the summer months."

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