Hugh Keevins has criticised the decision to move Celtic’s flag day to a Sunday evening kickoff, saying the champions should have been given the traditional Saturday afternoon slot. Celtic will open their league campaign against St Mirren at Celtic Park on Sunday, August 3, with a 4.30pm start, as chosen by Sky Sports.

This change means Rangers will begin their season almost 24 hours earlier when they face Motherwell at Fir Park on Saturday evening. That head start has raised eyebrows among supporters, especially given Celtic’s status as reigning champions.

Keevins believes the Hoops should have been given more respect and allowed to kick off the season on Saturday, the usual time for title celebrations at home. The veteran pundit said the fans deserve to enjoy the occasion at a proper time after another dominant season.

He also pointed out that while it may be frustrating for supporters, they’re ultimately not in control of these decisions. Keevins said Sky Sports holds the power, and neither the SPFL or fans can do much about it.

He said: (Clyde 1 Superscoreboard), “I have to agree with you 100 percent. I think that Celtic, as the champions, should be given precedence over the rest and should have a three o’clock Saturday afternoon kickoff with all of the pre-match celebrations which they have earned in the season gone by.

“It does seem to me to be a peculiarity that they’re there Sunday at 4.30, but I think if you’re a Celtic fan, okay it’s slightly inconvenient, but having won 13 of the last 14 titles, you go along whenever it takes place and you recognise the scale of that achievement on the part of Brendan Rodgers, Ange Postecoglou and other managers.

“Is it just more to do with the supporters and how it affects them wanting to have it at a more traditional time?

“On the one hand, the fans are powerless — and just to correct slightly, it’s not an SFA matter, it’s an SPFL matter. They’re powerless as well because Sky Television write the checks. End of story.”

Celtic fans have grown used to unusual kickoff times in recent years, but many still see midday on Saturday as the proper moment for flag day, a time for supporters to come together and celebrate at Parkhead.

This isn’t the first time Sky’s influence over fixture scheduling has caused frustration. Clubs often have to adjust to TV’s demands, and the traditional feel of Scottish football can get lost in the process.

Keevins’ comments reflect a wider feeling that champions deserve a bigger say in how they begin the defence of their title. While most supporters will still turn up in force, many would rather see the season start on their own terms, not at the convenience of broadcasters.

As the new campaign approaches, the timing of Celtic’s opener will remain a talking point. The day will still be a celebration of success, but there’s no doubt many feel it’s been slightly overshadowed by a decision made far from the pitch.