John Hartson reacts to Fashion Sakala footage ahead of Rangers ViaPlay Cup final v Celtic
John Hartson believes Fashion Sakala should have shown more respect after referring to Celtic as the “other mob” ahead of Rangers’ cup final showdown on Sunday.
Footage emerged live on Sky Sports News on Wednesday (Bryan R Fotheringham’s personal Twitter, 22 February) of Sakala mocking Celtic ahead of the clash at Hampden Park.
Hartson has since reacted and believes Ange Postecoglou’s men won’t be concerned about the Zambian’s recent comments.
“It did not bother me. People can say what they want, you have a job to do at the end of the day. You turn up and you are really focused, you aren’t bothered by what the opposition say or think,” said the former Hoops striker told Go Radio (quoted by the Daily Record, 22 February).
“On the day you need to back yourself and Celtic know they can potentially win this game. Rangers will feel the same way. All that sort of stuff on social media, making headlines, it’s up to them as they can do what they want. I am not overly bothered by it.”
“Barry is right. I think you be a bit more respectful.”
All part of it
We have seen similar from Michael Beale in the past. It’s all part of the rivalry and the jibe from Sakala shouldn’t be taken out of proportion. It was a passing comment for the Light Blues’ forward and we highly doubt Celtic’s players will be using it as extra motivation heading into Sunday’s clash.
The Parkhead side probably head to Hampden as slight favourites. Postecoglou’s men have been together longer and do possess quality all over the park. Beale is still sweating on the fitness of Malik Tillman ahead of Sunday – if the American is missing it will be a massive blow.
However, the Gers’ boss must ensure he doesn’t risk the Bayern Munich loanee if he is not fully fit. If he plays whilst not 100 per cent, there’s a chance he could cause himself some longer-term damage which will impact the Ibrox side in the second half of the season.
In other Rangers news, Alan Rough has predicted the score for the game against Celtic.