Graeme Souness shares ‘underdogs’ verdict ahead of Rangers v Celtic Old Firm clash
Graeme Souness believes Rangers are “underdogs” as Philippe Clement’s side head into a Scottish Premiership clash with Celtic on Saturday (11 May).
With just three matches of the league campaign remaining, the Gers are three points behind their Old Firm rivals at the top of the table ahead of their match at Celtic Park.
Rangers will be able to go joint-top with an away win against the Hoops. However, Clement’s team will have to achieve a feat that they have so far not managed this season – beat Celtic.
Souness shared his verdict ahead of the game, quoted by Daily Record on Tuesday (7 May), saying: “I thought they were a bit unlucky in the game (the 2-1 defeat in December).
“They were down to 10 men for a long time yet could have got something from the game. This is not just about this weekend. It’s about getting over the line in the league – and this is a big step towards it. There could still be slip-ups somewhere else. It’s not easy to win titles.
“Celtic have been the dominant team in the last couple of years since Steven Gerrard won the title. They have the bit between their teeth and you have to say Rangers are underdogs.
“They have to deal with that and get on with it. They need to focus, not get sidetracked by anything that goes on, and turn up and play on the day.”
Can Rangers pip Celtic to the Scottish Premiership title?
Due to their recent form, Rangers have given themselves everything to do if they are to lift their second league title in the last decade and beat their bitter rivals.
The Old Firm rivals have faced each other on three occasions this season, with Celtic claiming victory twice and the most recent meeting ending in a dramatic 3-3 draw at Ibrox.
Clement must ensure his side are up for the fight when they travel to Celtic Park on Saturday and may want to avoid dubbing themselves the “underdogs”, which Souness has called them.
The Gers have been brilliant since the Belgian’s appointment in October, closing a major gap between the two sides at the top of the table and even lifting a piece of silverware in the League Cup.
They certainly have the ability to challenge Celtic for the Scottish Premiership title, and under the guidance of Clement, there are no excuses for whatever result occurs this weekend.
In other Rangers news, a regular Clement starter is now going to sign a deal to leave the club.
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