BRENDAN CALLS ON FANS TO ENHANCE DERBY’S REPUTATION

across Scotland. It transcended football and was an event which also involved Celtic. ‘We will pay our respects on Saturday and remember those who lost their lives and all those others affected in the most tragic circumstances of 1971.’ Asked if the game could rival any derby in the world, Rodgers replied: ‘Absolutely. There is no question about it. ‘I am sure the worldwide audience for this game will be huge. It has always been a great game for people throughout the world. ‘Yes, there is baggage that comes with it, but we are moving into a new era now and a new cycle. ‘You want your supporters to be passionate, you want them to make as much noise as they can and you want to always make it difficult for the opponent. ‘But, irrespective of the result, you move into your normal life again. You move on, you mix and you live your lives. ‘That is what you want. But we have to live and work our lives together. That is what is important.’ Rangers will mark the 1971 tragedy, which saw 66 fans lose their lives following a crush on Stairway 13, before kick-off with honorary president John Greig — who captained the team that day — and directors from both clubs laying wreathes outside the stadium. A Rangers statement said: ‘It is to be hoped the 60 seconds will be observed and that decency will prevail over any rivalries. ‘The period of silence is about one thing and one thing only — honouring the memory of the 66 fans who left their homes to go to a football match and never returned.’ In a statement to their own fans, Celtic added: ‘Ahead of the league game between the sides at Ibrox, a minute’s silence will be held when supporters of both clubs will be asked to take a moment of quiet reflection and remember the 66 men, women and children who had gone to watch a game of football on January 2, 1971 but who, sadly, did not return.’