Hugh Keevins: Michael Beale to make nonsense of undeniable Rangers and Celtic fact
Hugh Keevins has called on Michael Beale to make “nonsense” of the “undeniable fact” that Celtic are in a far better place than Rangers heading into the Old Firm Derby.
The bitter rivals meet at Ibrox on Monday (2 January) with Beale looking to close the gap at the top of the Scottish Premiership to six points.
Daily Record columnist Keevins has claimed Celtic are in a far position heading into the Ibrox clash and has suggested it’s Beale’s “obligation” to get his side to upset the form book after admitting Celtic were in a far better place.
“Rangers manager Michael Beale has publicly, and bravely, acknowledged Celtic are in a better place than his side going into tomorrow’s game. It is now his obligation to make nonsense of what is an undeniable fact,” he wrote (Daily Record column, 1 January).
“Postecoglou is irked by what he feels is the practice of lumping his team and Rangers together for the purpose of making a convenient point about anything. His obligation at Ibrox is to illustrate the singular nature of his team and showcase the unique style of the football they play.”
Huge
This is a must-win game for the Gers with their Scottish Premiership hopes currently hanging by a thread. A win for Ange Postecoglou’s side would take them 12 points clear at the top of the table, a gap which would be nearly insurmountable for the Light Blues.
Performances haven’t been great under the new boss, but the results have come and it’s now up to the players to put in an aggressive and cohesive performance to get the better of their fierce rivals.
The Gers certainly have players who are more than capable of hurting Celtic. Malik Tillman was sensational against Motherwell and Beale will need the American to be at his creative best on Monday.
Ben Davies also looked good in the Gers’ last fixture and will have to put in another impressive performance if Rangers are to keep Celtic’s attacking players quiet. An early goal for either side could be absolutely vital in this fixture.
In other Rangers news, there is some very encouraging injury news regarding this Auchenhowie man after a turbulent year in Glasgow.