Referee Nick Walsh has been backed to control the first derby clash between Rangers and Celtic this season - with Alfredo Morelos' absence tipped to be a key factor.
Walsh was handed his first ever derby in 2021 when Steven Gerrard's Light Blues romped to a 4-1 Scottish Premiership victory over the Hoops at Ibrox. He sent off Callum McGregor in that encounter. Now the SFA have put their faith in the 31-year-old for the opening meeting of the season between the bitter rivals for what is sure to be a huge pressure match for the man in the middle.
However, former whistlers Des Roache and Steve Conroy reckons the absence of Morelos will be a huge benefit. The Colombian's suspension following his red card against Hibs will run out following the Premier Sports Cup clash with Queen of the South, however Gio van Bronckhorst is unlikely to thrown the frontman in after dropping him from the squad due to questions marks over his fitness and attitude.
Speaking to OLBG, Roache said: "There's no doubt that Nick Walsh will feel more pressure with the addition of the crowd but he won't be influenced by them. It's bedlam and he won't have experienced anything like it before but the atmosphere is that electric that he won't be able to pick out anything they're saying.
"Appointing Nick Walsh isn't a risk at all. He is the best man for the job. Nick may have only been appointed to two Old Firms so far, but they've both been on merit and it makes sense to put him in charge of, possibly, the most important Old Firm of the season.
"Nick Walsh will have a quieter game without Alfredo Morelos, for sure. He's the only hot-head within the two teams. Every other player and member of non-playing staff will be able to keep things under control."
Conroy added: "Nick's judgement calls are very good and the crowd will have no bearing on his decision-making. It's a breath of fresh air to see Nick given the opportunity this weekend.
"Nobody is doing him a favour - he's there because he deserves it and he's earned it. Nick is the start of a new pool of referees and we hope it's a sign of things to come."
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