
Derek McInnes: Rangers manager on first Old Firm game
August 25, 2026
Derek McInnes could be in the stands for his first Old Firm game as Rangers manager. The appeal hearing, set for Aug. 31, will determine the start of a nine-game suspension.
Derek McInnes: Rangers Manager on First Old Firm Game
Background
Derek McInnes, as Rangers manager, will manage important matches against teams such as Hearts and Motherwell, as well as the rivalry with Celtic. McInnes' previous experience and performance in such big games will be critical to Rangers' season aspirations.
Why is it important
Derek McInnes' presence in the Old Firm match could have a significant impact on Rangers' rivalry with Celtic throughout the season. The situation of the manager's suspension is considered a critical turning point in terms of the club's season goals. McInnes' absence in the matches may affect the team's strategy and motivation.
Featured
- Derek McInnes: Rangers Manager in First Old Firm Game
- Derek McInnes could be in the stands for his first Old Firm game as Rangers manager
- Derek McInnes: Rangers manager could be in stand for first Old Firm game after hearing date set - BBC Sport.
Derek McInnes could be in the stands for his first Old Firm game as Rangers manager. This situation will be determined at the objection hearing to be held on August 31. McInnes faces a four-match immunity ban stemming from his time as Hearts manager last season. The penalty was imposed after he described a late penalty awarded to Celtic in a match against Motherwell in May as "disgraceful". This penalty was converted into a goal by Kelechi Iheanacho, and Celtic won 3-2 in the match at Fir Park on 13 May, leaving them one point behind Hearts in the championship.
Rangers stated that McInnes' statements "were directed towards the decision itself, not a general criticism of the referees" and announced that the penalty would be appealed. McInnes stated that he could be in the stands for matches against teams such as Falkirk, Motherwell and Celtic, and said: "I know that I disagree on this and the club feels the same way. I am happy that we will appeal. I have been a manager for 19 years and you know that questions will be asked about controversial decisions. I did not want to make it personal. In my opinion, the decision was wrong. I feel that I conveyed my thoughts at the hearing. Broadcasters pay a lot of money to hear the reactions of managers. Managers and players can respond with confidence." "We have to be careful that they have to give it away. I didn't want to escalate the situation in any way. The situation was being discussed before my press conference. It was a pretty important moment in the season and there was a lot of emotion, but I thought what I said was under control."

What's next
The appeal hearing on August 31 will determine the future of McInnes' sentence. If the suspension is upheld, Rangers may have to compete against the likes of Falkirk and Motherwell in McInnes' absence. This could directly impact Rangers' season outlook and their rivalry with Celtic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Rangers game will Derek McInnes be in the stands for?
Derek McInnes could be in the stands for Rangers' first Old Firm game.
When will Derek McInnes' sentence be determined?
Derek McInnes' sentence will be determined at the appeal hearing on August 31.
When is Rangers' next game?
Rangers' next match will be against Falkirk on September 2.
Which player scored a goal in the match against Celtic?
Kelechi Iheanacho scored in the match against Celtic.
What is Rangers' situation in the league?
No specific information is given about Rangers' situation in the league.
Frequently Asked Questions
Derek McInnes, Rangers'ın hangi maçında tribünde olacak?
Derek McInnes'in cezası ne zaman belirlenecek?
Rangers'ın bir sonraki maçı ne zaman?
Celtic ile oynanan maçta hangi oyuncu gol attı?
Rangers'ın ligdeki durumu ne?
What is the next fixture to watch?
Related News

EFL Says Losses Are Unsustainable After PFA Legal Action
EFL CEO Trevor Birch has declared that the losses experienced in the football world are unsustainable and this creates a risk of systemic bankruptcy. These statements came after the PFA's legal action.

Spain's Collective Success and England's Hero Cult
A perspective that examines how football interacts with a country's cultural norms and how this shapes the success of its teams.

Being a Football Player's Partner: How is Life During the Transfer Period?
Life for football players' partners during the transfer period is full of constant uncertainty and change. A new city, a new home and constant mobility...
Boycott Warning from UEFA to Infantino
UEFA remains distrustful of Gianni Infantino and is keeping the possibility of a boycott on the table after the FA withdrew its support.