ROOKIE cops who have never policed an Old Firm fixture can tackle any return of violence linked to the match, Glasgow's top cop has vowed.

Tough-talking Chief Superintendent Andy Bates - the officer with the most hours policing Rangers v Celtic games under his belt - predicts new recruits will be able to handle trouble sparked by a powder keg match between the ancient rivals.

Rangers and Celtic are due to meet in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup next month and if Rangers win promotion to the Scottish Premiership there is a prospect of the regular fixture returning to the football calendar.

The pledge comes as the 52-year-old prepares to retire after more than three decades on the force.

In an exclusive interview with the Evening Times, Mr Bates said rookie officers would be able to lay down the law on offences linked to the notorious derby as Rangers edge closer to returning to the top-flight.

He said: "As time goes on, it's looking increasingly likely that we will have at least four Old Firm matches to contend with next season.

"And while I will miss being involved with that, I'm hopeful not too much will change in how these games are policed.

"Some officers may not have worked at any Old Firm matches, but they still have a massive wealth of experience.

"Police Scotland are well-versed in policing high-profile matches."

It has been more than a year since the last Old Firm clash - which saw more than 35 individuals arrested - but Mr Bates says that won't be used as an excuse.

The Hampden Park clash, to be played on the weekend of April 16/17, is expected to be a 52,000 strong capacity crowd.

He said new police recruits will be prepared for an upsurge in incidents linked to the Old Firm games, but does believe bigotry can be eradicated from the world-famous fixture.

Mr Bates said: "I still passionately believe we can eradicate bile they spout at each other.

"And Police Scotland are much better at policing Old Firm games than in previous years.

"We do certain things differently now, we have a much more intelligence-led approach.

"Officers will identify problems and nip them in the bud before any incidents can develop.

"Overall, we are better at policing events."

In January 2011, Mr Bates was appointed Divisional Commander of Glasgow South and East Renfrewshire Division.

Just weeks later, he had to deal with the notorious Old Firm "shame game" and spoke to both teams about their duties as role models for supporters.

The Celtic and Rangers squads, and backroom staff, were visited at their training grounds by Mr Bates to be briefed on their "responsibilities".

Mr Bates joined Strathclyde Police in 1983 and throughout his career, has performed largely operational roles.

He was instrumental in developing Police Scotland's Events Intelligence Model, which is used as a blueprint for all major football matches, concerts, protests, marches and parades across the country.

Mr Bates said: "The model has improved public safety, as well as reducing the cost to the public.

"The model was originally devised for football matches, but it is now the template we use for all major events, including processions, protests and concerts.

"The plan is based on intelligence we glean about the event.

"This would include looking at previous years and any information we have about the people attending.

"Then we carry out a risk assessment which tells us where we need officers and when.

"As always, our aim is to keep people safe and I believe this intelligence-led plan helps us achieve this.

"You always have to be one step ahead."