Celtic v Rangers referee and VAR appointments revealed ahead of huge Old Firm clash

John Beaton has been appointed referee for Sunday’s Scottish Premiership clash between Celtic and Rangers at Celtic Park, just one week after the two sides last met.

The Old Firm rivals will face each other again following Rangers’ emphatic 3-0 victory over Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final at Ibrox. Beaton will oversee the midday kick-off, with David McGeachie and Jonathan Bell serving as his assistant referees.

Nick Walsh has been assigned VAR duties, assisted by Grant Irvine. Walsh’s appointment is notable because he was the referee for last weekend’s cup clash at Ibrox. This time, he will be operating from the VAR room for the league meeting.

Beaton has recent experience of this fixture, having taken charge of the dramatic 2-2 draw at Ibrox on March 1.

Rangers appeared to be in control after Youssef Chermiti scored twice before half-time, but Celtic mounted a comeback after the break. Kieran Tierney reduced the deficit, setting up a tense finish.

The drama intensified late in the match when VAR official Steven McLean advised Beaton to review a possible Dujon Sterling handball. After checking the pitchside monitor, Beaton awarded Celtic a penalty.

Reo Hatate saw his initial effort saved by Jack Butland, but he reacted quickest in the ensuing scramble to level the match in stoppage time.

Beaton also has considerable experience of high-profile Old Firm encounters, including officiating the 2024 League Cup final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden.

His latest appointment places him at the centre of another eagerly anticipated derby, with Celtic seeking a response after their heavy defeat at Ibrox.

Before then, Martin O’Neill’s side must turn their attention to Thursday’s Europa League opener against Ferencváros at Celtic Park. Rangers will follow just three days later in what promises to be another intense Old Firm meeting.