Frank McAvennie has revealed his anger at Glasgow Rangers following their Ibrox decision ahead of the first Old Firm clash of the season this weekend.
The Lowdown: Gers refuse to sell away tickets
The Gers host Celtic in the first Old Firm clash of the season on Sunday, and they will of course be looking to earn bragging rights over their fierce rivals and get a head start in the title race.
The match will take place at Ibrox but, although it was suggested up to 700 Celtic fans could be allowed entry to the stadium (Sky Sports), Rangers have decided not to permit entry to away fans for the clash.
The Latest: McAvennie livid
Speaking to Football Insider, McAvennie has expressed his anger with the 55-time Scottish champions' decision. He said:
"They aren’t letting Celtic fans in, it’s a disgrace.
"It’s the biggest game in Europe and that’s because of the supporters.
"It doesn’t matter whether it’s at Parkhead or Ibrox, part and parcel of the game is the fans having a go at each other.
"I just don’t get it, I can’t understand why. It’s disgraceful. Rangers are saying one thing and Celtic are saying the other.
"It’s creating a bigger divide and there’s no need for it at the moment. It’s meant to be 700 fans or something.
"Incredible, honestly are Rangers just trying to wind people up at this point?"
The Verdict: Petty
This is just the latest decision in the petty battle between Celtic and Rangers. Supporters have waited more than 18 months to be able to watch games at stadiums again, both home and away. Celtic refused to guarantee they would allow Rangers fans at Celtic Park, but that does not mean the Gers needed to retaliate.
Old Firm clashes are amongst the most tense and ferocious across the globe, and the atmosphere provided by both sets of supporters makes it an unmissable event. Just when it seemed fans were able to return to where they want to be, they have been prevented from doing so. That is a shame and will no doubt detract from the ferocity of the usual atmosphere, no matter who you follow.
In other news, Rangers fans lauded this man against Ross County at the weekend.