Rangers v Celtic: Alan Stubbs issues Old Firm verdict amid Callum McGregor news
Alan Stubbs believes Callum McGregor will play a decisive role for Celtic if he is fit to take on Rangers on 7 April.
Gers play host to their arch rivals in the Old Firm derby at Ibrox this Sunday with the winner clinching top spot in the league.
McGregor, 30, who has been injured, has been handed a good chance by Brendan Rodgers to be back for the game.
“Sometimes you are beaten before you play because you are tired mentally, you are fatigued because of the expectation around the game… the demand of the fans, how important it is, the pressure. This is not just a physically demanding game but a mentally demanding game.
“McGregor will be a factor if he is fit for the game. All of his experience will be needed and, like Carter-Vickers and any influential player, it’s what he does for the other players that is just as important as what he brings to the team himself.
“He is going to be so important and when you look through the spine of their team now, Celtic are starting to look a lot stronger. They have better options now. One area where Celtic have an advantage is they have been there and done it before with some of the players. They know how to handle the occasion.”
Rangers go in as favourites v Celtic
Regardless of what Stubbs says, the Bears go into this game as favourites with or without McGregor in the Celtic ranks.
As the home team, they hold the advantage of playing in front of their passionate supporters at Ibrox.
Moreover, under the guidance of Philippe Clement, Gers have experienced a resurgence in form, with positive results indicating a turnaround in fortunes.
The team appears to be cohesive and motivated, with key players stepping up when needed.
With momentum on their side and a supportive crowd behind them, Rangers have every reason to believe they can handle the pressure of the occasion and deliver a strong performance against their rivals.
Stubbs’ observations notwithstanding, the current trajectory suggests that the Ibrox outfit are well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by Celtic and emerge victorious in the upcoming derby.
In other Rangers news, an update has emerged on personal terms as an important first-team player’s Ibrox exit is on the cards this summer.
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