Tom English has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding away ticket allocations for Rangers F.C. vs Celtic F.C. clashes

Tom English has delivered his verdict on the ongoing dispute over away fan allocations in fixtures between Rangers F.C.and Celtic F.C..

The debate intensified after Celtic warned they could bar Rangers supporters from Parkhead if members of the Union Bears are admitted. The Hoops referenced incidents following their Scottish Cup triumph as justification for taking a firmer stance ahead of the final Old Firm clash of the season.

Writing on X, English criticised the situation as “unending and dreary,” while challenging the widely-held belief that these fixtures lose their edge without away supporters. He argued that what is often described as a “special” atmosphere can instead involve sectarian chanting, IRA-related songs, and disorder.

In his view, removing away fans entirely may be the most sensible solution to reduce tensions.

However, there remains strong opposition to that stance. Many believe the presence of both sets of supporters is essential to the fixture’s identity, with players and staff also valuing the intensity that comes from a full stadium.

Others argue that most chants, while controversial, are largely harmless and do not directly lead to violence. Instead, they point to more serious issues — such as attacks on players or officials — as the real problem, calling for stricter punishments including arrests and lifetime bans.

With the Scottish Professional Football League proposing a balanced away allocation, there is a growing sense that a compromise solution already exists — if both clubs are willing to follow it.