Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has said his players believe they can go “toe-to-toe” with Celtic as the bitter rivals meet later today at Ibrox.
Rangers and Celtic play for the final time this season later on, as Rangers look to beat the Bhoys on home territory for a second time this campaign.
Steven Gerrard insists that his side are capable of going head-to-head with the champions and that the Gers can bridge the gap between themselves and their bitter rivals.
As quoted in The Express, Gerrard stated: “A lot of Rangers fans watched those previous derbies from behind the couch.
“But we’ve got the belief back. Players have more confidence and they now feel they can go toe-to-toe with Celtic.
“It’s important that the players have that,” Gerrard declared.
“You’d have to ask Celtic if they fear us more now than they did before.”
OPINION
Rangers have shown that they have the ability to overcome the champions this season. Despite being a long way off winning the title itself, Rangers have improved in many ways this term and Gerrard now has a vital season under his belt in Scottish football. Celtic are yet to appoint a permanent boss and the uncertainty around that will encourage Rangers. The Gers know their strengths and Gerrard is familiar with his squad, going into the new season Ranges could definitely close the gap and close in on Celtic. A win during the final Old Firm clash of the season would give Gerrard’s man a major confidence boost heading into the new campaign, Rangers beating the champions twice in a single season would be a significant sign of progression. Investment is key in the summer. Gerrard must make several strong additions to really step-up the title charge and give Celtic even more reason to be wary of the threat Gerrard’s men pose.