Paul Slane has revealed what he heard on Tuesday about the fan allocation for the next game between Rangers and Celtic.
The chaos at Ibrox following the Old Firm clash in the Scottish Cup has become national news that could impact the fixture for years to come.
There have already been multiple arrests, with more to follow in the coming days, as investigations are ongoing.
Rangers vs Celtic could be played behind closed doors
Slane revealed that he heard that the next Old Firm clash could be played behind closed doors.
He claims that not just away fans, but home fans will also be banned from the stands, making it akin to the situation during the lockdowns.
This could be a reciprocal step taken by the Scottish FA in co-operation with the SPFL to punish both clubs for the scenes that unfolded on Sunday.
For the Scottish Cup clash, Celtic were allowed 7,500 away fans.
The Ibrox outfit gave the Hoops supporters the full Broomloan Road Stand allocation, and parts of that stand were vandalised as well.
Speaking on Open Goal, Slane said: “I’ve been told today that it could be behind closed doors, the next Old Firm game. Both sets of fans.”
How an Old Firm without any fans would impact both clubs
Rangers average around £1.61m per home game, and not having any fans would take a massive toll on their finances.
Matchday income accounts for 48 per cent of their revenue, so it goes without saying how important filling up the stands is for them.
Similarly, for Celtic, they can generate up to £2m per game, which would be written off without fans.
An empty stadium would also result in a total loss of hospitality and concession earnings for the Old Firm fixture.
Celtic also have significant merchandising activities that generate more revenue from the club shop, which would be completely nullified.
If there are multiple games behind closed doors, it could also impact the broadcasting deal, as broadcasters mainly acquire the rights for Scottish football to showcase the spectacle of the Old Firm derby.
It would not have the same kind of impact without fans in the stands.
