Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she has not held any discussions about potentially cancelling the Old Firm derby next weekend despite the rise in COVID-19 cases.

Speaking earlier today about the clash between Celtic and Rangers, Sturgeon implored fans to be responsible but she said that, at this moment in time, there are no plans to stop the fixture from going ahead:

“It wouldn’t be my decision whether the Old Firm game is cancelled or not. I certainly have had no discussions about cancelling the Old Firm game. I would really like football, on the restricted basis it is having to operate just now with no fans in the stadiums, to go ahead. Because it’s good that folk who can’t be in the pub or house parties to watch their team on the telly.”

“So I want these things to go ahead and there’s certainly no plans as far as I’m aware to cancel the Old Firm match. But it comes down to, can everyone be responsible in how they watch it? I can’t babysit the whole country and nor would you want me to.”

The comments from Sturgeon will come as a massive relief to Rangers supporters but she did emphasise the need for everyone to abide by social distancing measurements.

With no fans in the stands, it will be a very strange atmosphere at Celtic Park anyway, but the first clash between the two clubs this season could give us the first indicator as to whether Steven Gerrard’s men are ready to mount a serious title challenge.

The Light Blues go into the fixture one point ahead of Celtic but they have played one game more.