NICK WALSH has been backed to handle the huge occasion that is Celtic versus Rangers this weekend.
The referee is the man in the middle for Saturday's lunchtime kick-off at Parkhead.
It's the first time that the official will take charge of the derby clash.
And former referees Des Roache and Steve Conroy insist Walsh is the right man to officiate the game.
They told OLBG: "Nick Walsh being appointed for the first Old Firm of the season is the correct and obvious choice from the SFA. Nick has quickly established himself as Scotland's number one referee so it wasn't a surprise that he was given the opportunity.
"Since Bobby Madden left to go down to England, Nick has established himself as the first-choice referee now. He's been coming through the ranks over the last couple of years.
"It'll be the first time he takes charge of an Old Firm in the company of a crowd, however, he'll be absolutely fine and come through it with flying colours.
"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.
"Nick's judgement calls are very good and the crowd will have no bearing on his decision-making."
The ex-officials also feel that the likely absence of Alfredo Morelos will make for a quieter afternoon for Walsh.
They added: "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."
