Philippe Clement is confident Rangers can finally end their Old Firm hoodoo by winning at Celtic Park.
Gers haven’t beaten their bitter rivals in a meaningful game since Ange Postecoglou’s side were toppled in the 2022 Scottish Cup semi-final. Clement has also failed to get the better of Brendan Rodgers in four attempts – losing three – since replacing Michael Beale at the helm.
But after dismantling Ross County 6-0 at Hampden in arguably the Light Blues’ best performance of 2024, Clement has backed his side to silence the ferocious 60,000 crowd at Parkhead next Sunday. He said: “We’re going to prepare us in the ultimate best way to be competitive in that game, and to go full out for the three points. Not to sit and to park the bus in front of goal, and to hope that something falls out of the sky. No, we’re going to go full on for our chances.”
Asked what made him believe he can finally put Celtic to the sword, he said: “Because we were really close last season. We were very close at Ibrox. We were really close in the Scottish Cup final. The difference in the final was one action that they were efficient and we were not.
“We had the same chances, we had the same possession also. So, OK, I know it will be a new game for a few guys, and I’m curious now how they are going to react the first time to play in an Old Firm match. But I’m also really positive about that way.
“The other guys will have more experience in that kind of game. We’re going to work hard this week with everybody to be ready. To go hard to take the three points like we do against every opponent. I hope also to get a few signings in this week.”
Celtic make the short trip to Paisley today as they take on St Mirren, aiming to protect their two-point lead over Rangers ahead of next week’s showpiece.
