Alan Shearer believes Celtic and Rangers supporters have only themselves to blame for the lack of away supporters at this weekend's Old Firm clash.
The former England captain laments the absence of travelling fans, stating it diminishes the spectacle of one of football's fiercest rivalries. However, he understands why authorities have decided to continue the ban.
Shearer shared his own experiences of attending Old Firm matches, acknowledging that tensions have frequently escalated in the past. He said: "It's such a shame there will be no away fans at Old Firm games this season. [Betfair]
"I've been to loads of Old Firm derbies, and they're brilliant occasions, but it can get a bit tasty at times. But unfortunately, the fans only have themselves to blame.
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"I get the emotions and everything else and the rivalries and all of that, but it does sometimes spill over the top because I've been there and I've seen it."
Celtic will face Rangers at Ibrox on Sunday in a Premier Sports Cup quarter-final, before clashing again in the Premiership later this month.
Shearer acknowledges the necessity of prioritising safety, but suggests the absence of visiting fans will inevitably impact the match atmosphere. He said: "I think it will affect the atmosphere.
"These games always have a brilliant atmosphere, but it's a shame that there's not a small section of away fans that are able to go in there.
"But it is what it is, and I think for safety reasons that they had to do it."
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