After months of delay, Rangers have finally initiated the necessary stadium upgrades to restore away ticket allocations for Old Firm derbies to acceptable levels.

This move follows a summer of improvements made by Celtic at Parkhead, aimed at enhancing the matchday experience for visiting Rangers fans.

The upgrades were part of an agreement between the two Glasgow clubs and the SPFL, promising to allow around 5% of away supporters into each ground during derby matches.

However, Rangers failed to uphold their side of the bargain, casting doubt over the restoration of traditional away allocations.

Celtic’s renovations were completed in time for the new season, but Rangers lagged behind, unable to guarantee that their upgrades would be finished before the second derby of the season, scheduled around New Year.

Consequently, Celtic made the decision to withhold tickets for Rangers supporters for next week’s match at Celtic Park. Manager Brendan Rodgers didn’t hold back, making it abundantly clear in a press conference where the fault lay.

Now, as reported by The Scottish Sun, Rangers have finally taken action by submitting planning permission for the installation of safety nets at Ibrox, a key requirement for welcoming back thousands of Celtic fans for future derbies.

This step should see the work completed well before the third and fourth league meetings between the two sides in 2025, when the agreed allocations are expected to be reinstated.

Celtic’s refusal to allocate tickets last week appears to have had the desired effect, forcing Rangers to address the issue publicly.

Despite neither Rangers nor the SPFL acknowledging that the delay in stadium works was the reason for Celtic’s decision, the Scottish champions’ firm stance has evidently pushed Rangers into action.

Celtic have consistently advocated for the return of larger away allocations for these historic encounters, remaining committed to upholding the tradition of the derby.

With Rangers now moving forward with the required stadium upgrades, it is hoped that this ongoing dispute can finally be resolved, allowing fans on both sides to once again enjoy the fierce atmosphere of a packed Old Firm clash.

For now, though, the focus shifts to the upcoming derby at Celtic Park, where the absence of away fans will undoubtedly be felt.