A former top Scottish referee believes Nick Walsh is the perfect official to take charge of the next instalment of Rangers vs Celtic.
Steve Conroy insists Walsh is the best ref in the country.
It was announced today that Walsh will be the man in the middle for this year's upcoming Viaplay Cup final.
Celtic will be aiming to retain their trophy as they look to take one huge step towards achieving a domestic treble.
Meanwhile, Michael Beale will see this as an opportunity to gain a huge phycological advantage of the Hoops going forward.
Lifting the League Cup would also see Beale lift his first trophy as Rangers manager.
However it pans out, drama between the Glasgow giants is guaranteed.
And Conroy reckons Walsh is the best referee to deal with such high stakes at Hampden on February 26.
He told Grosvenor Sport: “I think Nick is the right choice. He’s been the best referee in the country since Bobby Madden left, but he has not been free from talking points or controversy this season, as we saw in the Hearts-Celtic game in October when a Michael Smith handball went unpunished.
READ MORE: Rangers vs Celtic Viaplay Cup final referee and VAR announced
"It’s an experienced team overall, with Kevin Clancy as the fourth official and John Beaton the VAR. They are guys who have been over the course before, so overall, it’s the right team.
"Nick did his first derby during Covid, so he was away from the baying masses, but he covered Celtic’s 4-0 win over Rangers earlier in the season, so he knows what to expect, and he won’t be over-awed. Nothing will come as a surprise to him, and he won’t be over-awed
"It’s the first major final to use new technology, and after all of the issues we’ve had this season, the powers that be will be hoping it goes smoothly and without anything to discuss, but it certainly adds tension to it, that’s for sure, given it’s a Celtic-Rangers final.
"Let’s hope if Beaton has to get involved, it doesn’t take four minutes to get to the decision, which is so frustrating for everyone involved.
"And in that regard, tell the fans what’s going on. I think the SFA have been quote contemptuous of the public. We are the consumers. We are buying the product, and therefore, the paying public should be kept informed.
"They need to make announcements quickly on VAR calls and get the graphics on the big screens."
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