Return of Rangers-Celtic Old Firm derby is 'massive', says SPFL boss

By Andrew Dickson

SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster says the return of the Old Firm derby is a welcome boost ahead of the new Scottish Premiership season which starts this

SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster believes this season's Scottish Premiership will hold more global appeal as the Old Firm get set to renew their rivalry.

Rangers are back in the top flight for the first time in four years after their demotion in 2012 following financial difficulties.

Whether they can challenge Celtic for the title at the first time of asking remains to be seen and the Parkhead side are clear favourites to come out on top.

But the mere fact they will compete against each other in league fixtures once again after a hiatus is something Doncaster thinks will draw viewers in.

Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ, he said: "It's massive having the Old Firm derby back. It's the one game which perhaps defines the Ladbrokes Premiership around the world.

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Image: Neil Doncaster thinks the return of the Old Firm derby will give the Scottish Premiership added appeal this term

"You've also got the likes of Aberdeen and Hearts, who have run Celtic close in recent seasons. We're certainly expecting a real tussle at the top this year.

"I think there's a huge sense of anticipation and excitement looking ahead to the opening round of the Premiership this weekend.

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"There's a lot to look forward to. There's clearly the return of real box office with the likes of Brendan Rodgers at Celtic and Joey Barton at Rangers.

"I think there will be a lot of people tuning in around the world, not just the UK. We've got over 100 countries now taking the rights to our games looking forward to the season ahead."

Image: Rangers manager Mark Warburton will oversee his club's attempt at a 55th Scottish title in the coming months

Rangers and Celtic are live on Sky Sports 1 this weekend, with the former hosting Hamilton from noon on Saturday and champions Celtic taking on Hearts at Tynecastle just over 24 hours later.

Doncaster added: "We've had an increase in attendances over the last year looking forward to the return of the Old Firm.

"I'm absolutely sure that attendances and viewer numbers this year will be huge with so much to play for."

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