John Hartson wary of ‘wounded animal’ Rangers ahead of cup clash with Celtic
John Hartson had a key message when discussing his former club Celtic’s chances against Rangers in their Scottish Cup clash on Sunday; don’t get complacent.
As reported by The Glasgow Times, the ex-striker told Go Radio he expects a big reaction from their old firm rivals, with defeat from their league encounter swinging the title fight firmly in the hoops’ direction.
But Hartson has urged Celtic to stay calm before the storm, and expects boss Ange Postecoglou to try downplay expectations with fans dreaming of a domestic treble.
Hartson said: “It’s game by game and that’s how Ange works too. He could be thinking the treble would be wonderful, he’s not going to come out and say it as it isn’t what managers say. He’ll tell you the opposite of what he’s thinking.
“Rangers could beat Celtic at the weekend. Why would I be a fool and say they’re going to win the treble?
“They have to get to the final first though and have an extremely hungry, wounded animal coming at them at the weekend.”
Party Poopers
Hartson’s message is a timely reminder to Celtic that any previous results aren’t indicative of what may happen in future clashes.
With the recent league defeat likely putting the league title out of reach, Sunday represents a great chance for Rangers to regain some of the bragging rights over their old firm rivals.
A battering of St Mirren last weekend was the perfect tonic heading into a crucial week of fixtures, with the return leg of the Europa League tie against Braga set to come before the showdown at Celtic Park.
Win both these games and the mood around Ranger’s season would change dramatically to one of euphoria. Lose both and it will feel like a complete failure.
These are the knife edges with which football season’s can often hang. Rangers will be desperately hoping this one teeters in their favour.
In other Rangers news, this former striker has given his verdict for the second-leg clash against Braga.