The 1999 title-decider was marred by scenes of violence

The Scottish Premier League insist Rangers' visit to Celtic Park on 27 April will go ahead as planned, even if it is a potential title-decider.

Secretary Iain Blair told BBC Sport the date was chosen after talks with the police and both Glasgow clubs.

Rangers won the 1999 championship with a stormy 3-0 victory at Celtic Park.

Four fans invaded the pitch and referee Hugh Dallas was injured when hit by a missile, while there were more than 100 arrests in the city after the game.

Celtic pair Stephane Mahe and Vidar Riseth were sent off, along with Rangers striker Rod Wallace.

Dallas needed treatment from paramedics before continuing with the match, and a steward was also targeted with an object thrown from the crowd.

"We had a situation back in May 1999 and at that stage we said we would do what we could to avoid an Old Firm decider," said Blair.

"It is recognised by us, the clubs and by the police that there is the potential for the game to be a league championship decider and in the circumstances that is the best we can do."

Along with their five post-split fixtures, the SPL still have to find dates for Rangers' outstanding fixtures with St Mirren and Motherwell.

If the league leaders advance in the Uefa Cup, midweek dates will be hard to find but Blair aims to end the championship without an extension.

"We need to look at circumstances as they develop and are aware of the challenges if Rangers progress in the Uefa Cup," added Blair.

"But at this point in time the objective is still to finish the league season before the Scottish Cup final."

Rangers, who also remain in the Scottish Cup, could face the prospect of playing as many as four games in a week.

"It has happened in the past but it's something we try to avoid," said Blair. "It could happen this season, I'm not saying it will but it's certainly an option."