Sky Sports pundit believes Celtic stronger than Rangers in every department amid 2022 comparison
Andy Walker believes Celtic are stronger than Rangers in every department for this weekend’s Old Firm clash at Celtic Park on Saturday (8 April).
Despite Michael Beale recording an unbeaten record in the Scottish Premiership since arriving as manager at Ibrox, he has been unable to close the nine-point gap to Ange Postecoglou’s side.
Speaking live on Sky Sports on Wednesday (5 April), Walker admitted that it was “win or bust” for Beale but that his team is weaker now than it was when the Gers defeated Celtic in the Scottish Cup semi-final this time last season.
He said: “The only hiccup Celtic have had in Ange Postecoglou’s time is that semi-final defeat to Rangers last season at Hampden.
“That Rangers team is a better team than the one I’m looking at now.
“It had Joe Aribo who was a huge player for them, Calvin Bassey was also part of that and this was a Rangers team that had a tremendous run to the Europa League final.
“So he’s only had one trasnfer window, Michael Beale, and he’s made some changes to the team, but he needs to make more.
“I think Celtic are stronger in almost every department.”
Tough to hear
This is an extremely damning assessment of Rangers by Walker and one that is way over the top.
Although there is still a nine points gap between the fierce rivals, Rangers have been in stellar form in the Scottish Premiership since Beale’s arrival – only dropping points in the Old Firm clash at Ibrox just after the New Year.
Even since then, the Gers have brought both Nicolas Raskin and Todd Cantwell into the club, both of whom have made significant improvements to the first team.
Although Rangers were comprehensively defeated in the Viaplay Cup final, many fans will hope Beale’s side can exact revenge this weekend.
They are bang in form, have several match-winners such as Malik Tillman and Fashion Sakala, and have revenge on their minds, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see them run the Hoops extremely close this weekend.
Saturday is the last chance saloon for Rangers and any lingering hopes of a title bid.
Win and Celtic nerves may just ramp that little bit higher for the challenge that awaits in the future.
In other Rangers news, another Ibrox exit may be on the cards after a major revelation last week which could force the clubs to part ways with a senior player.