Festive Old Firm derby to be played mid-week

The festive-period meeting between Celtic and Rangers is traditionally held on the public holidays of January 1 or 2.

But, following the advice of police and the Scottish Government, the match will be played on a midweek evening this term to reduce the possibility of trouble surrounding the fixture.

An SPL spokesperson said: "The SPL can confirm that the second Old Firm fixture will take place on December 28.

"Following the setting up of the Scottish Government's Joint Action Group, there was a real pressure to reschedule Old Firm derbies away from weekends and bank holidays.

"We felt it was important for us to respond positively to the JAG process.

"Following consultation with the police, Government and other members of the JAG, we have therefore agreed to schedule the second Old Firm match to a date that reduces the challenges associated with such games being played on bank holidays."

The full Clydesdale Bank Premier League fixture list will be published on Friday.