BRENDAN RODGERS and Barry Ferguson both hope the restoration of away allocations by Celtic and Rangers is the first step towards returning to more substantial visiting supports for derby games.

Both clubs confirmed earlier that a deal to provide about 4 per cent of tickets to the opposition would be in place for Rangers’ visit to Celtic Park on March 16 and the subsequent meeting at Ibrox.

The deal was brokered by the Scottish Professional Football League about 12 months ago but the lock-out of away fans continued for the first two Old Firm fixtures this season after Celtic felt Rangers had not met safety work requirements by the agreed time.