Derek McInnes Disappointed by No Away Fans at Celtic vs Rangers Matches

Derek McInnes has voiced his disappointment after it was confirmed there will be no away supporters at any SPFL fixtures between Celtic and Rangers for the rest of the season.

The decision follows the ugly flashpoints at Ibrox during last season’s Scottish Cup tie between the clubs. With tensions still raw, Rangers proposed a reduced away allocation for the upcoming Premier Sports Cup clash at Ibrox next weekend. Celtic rejected that offer.

Talks with the SPFL pushed the situation to its stark conclusion: league meetings between the Glasgow rivals will now be played in front of home fans only.

Speaking at his Friday press conference, Kilmarnock boss McInnes admitted he had only just seen the news flash up on television.

“I noticed the news on the Sky ticker tape there,” he said. “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 without an away end. For a rivalry built on colour, noise and confrontation, it is a stark image – and a sign of where Scottish football’s most volatile fixture now stands.