GLASGOW, Dec 31: Wednesday's Old Firm clash between Celtic and Rangers has been postponed as a mark of respect following the death last weekend of Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell, the Scottish Premier League (SPL) announced here on Monday.

“These are never easy decisions. But we recognise that as a former player, Phil was part of Celtic's extended football family,” Ian Blair, the SPL secretary said. “After consultation with Rangers we agreed to postpone the Old Firm fixture on Jan 2.”

The game is the third Scottish top flight fixture due to take place on Wednesday to be postponed since O'Donnell died in hospital on Saturday after collapsing when about to be substituted towards the end of Motherwell's 5-3 home win against Dundee United at Fir Park.

Motherwell's game against Hibernian was the first to be postponed and this was followed on Sunday with Gretna delaying their game against St Mirren as it was due to take place at Fir Park.—AFP