O'Neill backs plan to bring Old Firm to England

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Martin O'Neill has backed proposals which could see his former club Celtic and Rangers becoming part of a revamped Premier League. The league is due to discuss the possibility of extending to two divisions – including the two Scottish giants – during the summer.

Aston Villa manager O'Neill believes the duo would become "monumental players" if they decide to move south of the border. O'Neill said: "My personal thought is they would enhance the Premier League. Glasgow is a phenomenal football city. Celtic house 60,000 fans and Rangers house 50,000 fans every game. They would eventually end up as monumental players in the Premier League. The sceptics would say, 'Why do it?' But I'm talking about enhancement."

The proposals are likely to face serious opposition and O'Neill conceded: "I suppose Belgian teams could then ask to join the Dutch league and Dutch teams could then request to join the Bundesliga. All of those points would have to be considered. But, if you're asking for a personal opinion, I think Celtic and Rangers joining would enhance the Premier League and make us all strive to get better.

"There are processes that would have to be observed, obviously. It was spoken about a few seasons ago and obstacles were put in the way. The idea died at that time and I don't know how strong the possibility is at the moment. I certainly support the idea. But, then again, I could be a voice in the wilderness."