The 45-year-old takes charge of his 10th derby on Saturday after his first 14 years ago ended in controversy.
The SFA’s appointment of John Beaton for the last Old Firm derby was seen by some as the Hampden chiefs sending out a message they wouldn’t be dictated to when it comes to choosing their match officials for big games.
It comes after Ibrox chiefs – not for the first time – made it clear they wanted Collum kept well clear of fixtures involving them following controversy during the last Old Firm derby at Parkhead during the festive period. But the SFA are backing their man as the 45-year-old takes charge of the biggest clash between the rivals since… well, since the last one. But there is a huge amount riding on this one with just three points separating the two sides at the league summit with three games to go.
Raging Roma It's not only in Scotland where Collum has found himself under fire – controversy has followed the whistler while on duty abroad. And that was evident when was forced to apologise to Roma after he awarded a last-gasp penalty against Chris Smalling during a Europa League clash with Borussia Monchengladbach. Collum mistakenly thought a handball offence had been committed by the on loan Manchester United defender in the Serie A side's draw.
Then Gers boss Steven Gerrard called it “embarrassing”. But worse was to follow as the club released a stinging statement which later saw them hit with FIVE charges and fined £6000. They launched a wide-ranging attack that called Collum's ability into question and appealed the sending off - citing "underlying issues" with his performance. Rangers said: "It was an inexplicable decision by the match referee, Willie Collum.
Rangers FC Celtic FC Scottish Premiership Derek Mcinnes Kirk Broadfoot Lee Mcculloch Neil Lennon Scottish Football Association
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