Celtic and Rangers strike agreement for return of away fans for Old Firm matches from next season... but visiting supporters remain blocked for the final league clashes this campaign

Celtic and Rangers have reached an agreement for the return of away supporters at Old Firm matches from next season.

The Scottish Professional Football League confirmed the clubs will provide ticket allocations of around five per cent for away supporters next season.

Visiting fans were absent from the final two league matches between the sides last season.

The decision was reportedly taken due to concerns over 'safety and security', after several incidents between the two fans at both Ibrox and Celtic Park.

Both Old Firm matches in the Scottish Premiership this season have taken place without away supporters present.

Rangers had demanded tickets for away supporters for their match in December, with a SPFL Board Sub-Committee agreeing the lockout on supporters was 'unreasonable'.

Away fans were still barred from the match and will not be present for the final Old Firm games in the league this season, despite the agreement. 

'Following engagement with both clubs, the SPFL is pleased to confirm that Rangers FC and Celtic FC will provide ticket allocations of around 5% for away supporters, for SPFL matches between the two clubs,' an SPFL statement read.

'This will be effective from Scottish Premiership season 2024/25, subject to all necessary requirements being satisfied at both Ibrox and Celtic Park.

'It does not affect the remaining two league matches between the clubs in season 2023/24, which will remain at a zero allocation for away supporters.'

Under the terms of the agreement, around 3,000 Rangers supporters will be able to attend matches at Parkhead next season.

Around 2,500 Celtic supporters will be able to secure tickets to watch the Old Firm clashes at Ibrox.

The rivals are currently involved in a close Scottish Premiership title race with Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic one point clear at the top of the table, although Rangers have a game in hand.

Rangers will host Celtic at Ibrox in a crunch clash on April 7.

Another league match will take place between the sides following the split.

Celtic have won both Old Firm matches in the league this season, winning 1-0 at Ibrox and 2-1 at home in December.