Hampden Park pitch to be relaid

Boruc described the Hampden pitch as "horrible"

Hampden Park chiefs have confirmed they will relay the pitch before next month's Co-operative Insurance Cup final between Celtic and Rangers.

The surface was criticised after both semi-finals with Falkirk defender Steven Pressley calling it "appalling" after his side's 3-0 loss to Rangers.

Celtic keeper Artur Boruc labelled it "horrible" after the semi with Dundee United which his side won on penalties.

The relaying is due to begin early next month ahead of the 15 March final.

As well as the showpiece final, Scotland face Iceland at Hampden in a World Cup qualifier on 1 April.

"It's a cup final and we want to show Scottish football at its best and on its best surface" Gordon Strachan

David Kells, director of Hampden Park Limited, said: "In order to guarantee a first class surface for the forthcoming important matches including the Co-operative Insurance Cup Final and Scotland's match against Iceland we will be relaying the pitch at the beginning of March.

"From previous experience this will give us ample time to carry out the exercise."

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan had said he hoped the Old Firm final would be played on an improved pitch so supporters could enjoy the game.

MY SPORT: DEBATE Give your thoughts on the Hampden pitch

"It's a cup final and we want to show Scottish football at its best and on its best surface," he said.

It is understood the relaying will cost between £100,000 and £120,000 and will include the upgrading of the pitch irrigation system.

Irn Bru Second Division side Queen's Park also play their home games at Hampden.