THE first Old Firm derby of the new season will be staged at Celtic Park before the end of October.
It’s understood the SPFL plan to release the 2020-21 Premiership and Championship fixtures next Friday.
Celtic Park is set to host the first Old Firm of the new campaign before OctoberCredit: Getty Images
Celtic boss Neil Lennon indicated a fortnight ago he’d like the opening home clash against the Gers – normally watched by nearly 60,000 fans – pushed back as long as possible to at least ensure it’s not behind closed doors due to the Covid-19 situation.
But, it’s now believed that won’t happen and it will be fixed for a date no later than October.
Sky Sports’ five-year broadcasting deal kicks off on August 1 and it’s thought they want the first derby to be pencilled in for the end of the month.
The Championship is scheduled to begin on October 17.
Growing hopes of fans being able to return to grounds early in the campaign, even if just in reduced numbers, depend on more details from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
She is preparing to give the go-ahead to live outdoor events with physical distancing possibly from July 23.
SPFL operations director Iain Blair is considering European and international dates – including Rangers’ Europa League tie against Bayer Leverkusen – ahead of fixtures being finalised.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
