The increase in away fan allocations for the upcoming Celtic vs Rangers derbies is a positive step, but Callum McGregor believes it doesn’t go far enough.

Ahead of the March 16 clash at Celtic Park, it was confirmed that over 2,000 away fans will be in attendance—a significant increase from the 800-900 seen in recent years and the 0 seen this year. However, it’s still a far cry from the 7,500 away supporters that were permitted before Rangers slashed allocations in 2018 because they were sick and tired of Celtic celebrating at their stadium.

Speaking about the situation, McGregor made it clear he would like to see the fixture return to its traditional full allocation for away supporters.

“Yeah, it was obviously a while ago now but it was great,” McGregor told Celtic TV. 

“I think the atmosphere generally in the stadiums and in the games created a real buzz around the place. So yeah, listen, it’s a big fixture and we want to try and maximise it as much as we can. Every game that’s on the TV then show the best version of Scottish football and that includes the supporters as well.

“So if we can make it a really good spectacle, more people will watch and buy in etc. So it can only be a good thing for the game.”

While the restoration of over 2,000 away fans is progress, it’s clear that McGregor—alongside many fans—believes the fixture would be better served by returning to pre-2018 allocations.

This is what the club were pushing for, but the Ibrox side were reluctant to stretch that far.

Fans in these next two might not carry the same weight as they would normally do, with Celtic so far ahead, but heading into next season, they could be the difference maker. The first derby should be set to take place at Ibrox, with Celtic hosting the New Year fixture.