Rangers duo Cyriel Dessers and Mohamed Diomande add fuel to Celtic fire with words
Gary Keown believes comments made by Rangers duo Cyriel Dessers and Mohamed Diomande could spur Celtic on in the title race.
The Gers cemented their place in the Scottish Cup final after a 2-0 win against Hearts at Hampden Park last Sunday (21 April).
This has distracted from the league form of Philippe Clement’s side who haven’t won in their last three Scottish Premiership games.
Keown discussed in his column for the Scottish Mail on Sunday (28 April, page 100) that he believes comments made by the Rangers players could encourage their rivals.
He said: “Remarks made over this past week by Cyriel Dessers and Mohamed Diomande only added more fuel to the fire. If Rodgers wants more material to keep the pot boiling, these guys have played right into his hands.
“Dessers voicing they get their rhythm back, are the best team in the league. Diamonde followed that up by stating: “The performance against Hearts, that’s our level. We know when we play like that, nobody can compete.
“You can bet that stuff from Dessers and Diomande hasn’t been missed and might well re-surface, dressed in green-and-white ribbons, before long.”
Can Rangers catch Celtic in the title race?
The Light Blues sit three points behind Rogers’ side with five league games remaining of the season.
On Sunday (28 April), they travel to face St Mirren as they look to follow up their Cup win with a similar result.
This is followed by the visit of Kilmarnock at Ibrox before yet another Old Firm, this time at Celtic Park.
Although it feels unlikely, there is no doubt that with an upturn in form that Clement’s side can catch up with their bitter rivals.
Celtic have to face the same teams as the Gers post-split and as a result, this leaves a straight shootout for the title.
Realistically, Rangers have to win every single one of their games if they want a chance at winning this league and hope that Rogers loses at least one.
Dessers and Diomonde will be hoping their comments will spur their teammates on as much as it will their biggest rivals.
In other Rangers news, the Light Blues are expected to take a financial hit on a transfer which suits all involved.
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