We spoke to Rangers fans ahead of the Old Firm clash at Ibrox

More than 50,000 Gers supporters lined the streets before the sell-out home game against city rivals Celtic kicked-off at midday.

The Glasgow Times spoke to some of those who were there to get their views on the first Glasgow derby of the 2021/22 season and their hopes for this afternoon's match.

Norrie Donis, 53, of Cumnock, said: “I’m looking forward to it. It’ll be my daughter Zara’s very first Old Firm game after holding a season ticket for two years. She’s excited – but I’m probably more excited.

“If we get a quick goal, I think we could romp it. My head’s saying one thing and my heart’s saying another, but I’m quietly confident.”

Season ticket holder Amanda Mulheron, 40, of Govan, said: “I think we’re in with as good of a chance as anybody. You’ve got to back your team.

“I think the atmosphere will be phenomenal with 50,000 plus Rangers fans in there giving it laldy.

“So, we’re hoping for a great game, with a good defence team behind McCrorie. There’s no better place to start for him than an Old Firm match.”

Derek Miller, 45, of Larkhall, said: “I’m buzzing for it. I’m expecting the Rangers to come out here and dominate the game like we used to.

Feeling hopeful ahead of the clash, he added: “We’re going to blow some cobwebs away. We haven’t started the season too well, but we’re going to pull it back today.”

READ MORE: Can you spot yourself in our Rangers vs Celtic pictures?

Stewart Smith, 48, of Larkhall, said: “I’m quite nervous, but the Rangers always prevail. I’m very, very excited.

"I think there will be a few cards shown – hopefully not for us – but I just hope Morelos stays on the park.

“You always get nervous before a game, but I strongly fancy us. You have to back the team.”

Denise Kelly, 31, of Falkirk, said: “It’s amazing to be back in the stadium for an Old Firm – I’ve been waiting a long time for it.”

When asked how she felt about no Hoops fans being in the stadium, she said: “It’s better for us – and I’m confident we’ll win it today. I think we'll do it.

Peter George, of Paisley, played the bagpipes outside of Ibrox Stadium ahead of kick-off.

A big Gers fan himself, he said: “I thought it would be a good opportunity to come down and make some people happy before the game. It’s been brilliant so far.

Peter added: “Everyone’s buzzing – they’re all really up for it and raring to go. I’m disappointed to not be in there with them, but I’m just happy to be here to take in the atmosphere.”

Pictures by Robert Perry