SPFL PUSH FIRST OLD FIRM GAME BACK IN SCHEDULE

THE first Old Firm clash of the new season could yet be played out in front of fans with the derby set to be pushed back in the schedule when the SPFL announces the 2020-21 Premiership fixtures this morning.

The fourth game on last season’s timetable, it’s anticipated that the first clash between the Glasgow giants at Celtic Park will be arranged later than its normal late August/early September slot.

Although the opening weekend of the season on August 1/2 will be played behind closed doors, the relaxing restrictions around Covid-19 has increased the possibility of fans attending games in the near future.

While Jason Leitch, Scotland’s clinical director, recently told supporters to ‘pencil in’ October as the time at which they may be able to return to stadiums, Celtic remain hopeful of some fans being allowed to attend before then ahead of a staged return to capacity crowds.

Asked last week about the prospect of a restricted number of supporters being allowed to attend the club’s flag day at the start of August, Parkhead chief executive Peter Lawwell said: ‘I don’t think it’s impossible, definitely not. We’ll certainly be ready for it.

‘Match-day revenue is absolutely vital for

Scottish clubs due to the levels of our broadcast deals.’

The opening weekend’s fixtures will contain three live TV matches as Sky broadcasts the first of 48 games per season at the outset of its five-year deal. Despite the ongoing legal wrangle, there will be no ‘Team 12’ — with Dundee United taking the place of Hearts.

The second Old Firm clash will take place on January 2 — the 50th anniversary of the Ibrox Stadium disaster.