Rangers: Kris Boyd uses one word to describe Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers before Old Firm

Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd has called Celtic head coach Brendan Rodgers "lucky" ahead of the Old Firm derby on 7 April.

Rodgers was handed a two-match ban following comments he made after 10-man Celtic were beaten 2-0 at Hearts on 3 March, using the word "incompetent" in his assessment of the refereeing team.

However, the second match of that suspension - which would have prevented him from standing on the touchline against Rangers - has been suspended for a year.

Speaking to Sky Sports after Celtic's 3-0 win over last-placed Livingston on 31 March, Boyd said: "[Rodgers is] lucky to be there [at Ibrox Stadium], might I add."

Rangers can leapfrog Celtic with Old Firm victory

Regardless of Rodgers' presence or absence at Ibrox when Rangers and Celtic clash next, Philippe Clement will be desperate to secure what could be a decisive blow in the title race.

The Gers sit second in the table, just one point behind their bitter rivals and with a game in hand. Victory in the derby would see Clement's men leapfrog Celtic to the top of the table, with the chance to extend that advantage if they win their extra match.

Even a draw would ensure Rangers maintain control of their own title destiny, but a defeat would shift the momentum across the city - and Clement will be keen to exact revenge after the 2-1 defeat his side suffered at Celtic Park when the two teams last met on 30 December.

The Gers simply cannot lose this match if they wish to be crowned champions come the end of the season.

In other Rangers news, Stephen McGinn has called a piece of officiating in the Gers' win over Hibernian "mental".

For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.