Graeme Souness criticizes away fan ban for upcoming Glasgow Derby

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 10:35 AM

Last updated Sep 11, 2026

Graeme Souness criticizes away fan ban for upcoming Glasgow Derby
Summary

Former Rangers manager Graeme Souness has publicly criticized the decision to prohibit away supporters at the upcoming Premier Sports Cup quarter-final between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox. Souness stated that the atmosphere of the fixture is diminished without fans from both clubs, noting that the match is a global spectacle that loses its unique identity under current restrictions. The SPFL implemented the ban on away supporters following a dispute over ticket allocations between the two clubs. This policy is set to continue for league matches, with both sets of fans facing lockout periods at opposing stadiums. Souness expressed hope for a short-term resolution to restore the traditional rivalry atmosphere, which he considers the most intense derby in world football. A permanent solution involving an agreed allocation and management plan is expected following the current rotation of empty away sections.

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By the Numbers
  • Graeme Souness described the Old Firm derby as the most hostile and significant fixture in world football.
  • The SPFL enacted the away fan ban after Celtic rejected a 300-ticket allocation for the Ibrox match.
  • Both Rangers and Celtic supporters will face home-only attendance for games during this current period.
  • Officials aim to implement a permanent solution for fan allocations by early January 2027.
  • The ongoing ticketing dispute follows reports of crowd management concerns at previous meetings at Ibrox.
Latest Updates
  • 10:35 AMYahoo Sports“Football’s not the same without the support,” Souness
What they're saying
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While Scott Brown represented the Celtic side of things at the Premier Sports media event yesterday, the Rangers angle was covered by Graeme Souness and rather surprisingly he talked a lot of sense…...

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