Former Celtic midfielder Alan Thompson has backed the Hoops to come away with three points at Ibrox this weekend, pinpointing that if Ange Postecoglou’s side wants to do so, they will need to be switched on at the back.
Celtic go into Sunday’s game full of confidence, off the back of an impressive domestic unbeaten run that has seen the Hoops go without defeat in Scotland since back in September.
However, as we know from previous experiences, Ibrox can be a difficult place to go on derby day, with Postecoglou and his squad hoping to take what could be a massive three points in this season’s title race.
Speaking to Sky Sports, ex Celtic man Alan Thompson has given his verdict on this weekend’s game, as he stated that his former side will have enough to take a six-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
The Englishman also stated that the defensive backline’s performance at Ibrox will be vital in helping them towards the three points.
“It’s going to be an intriguing game, one that I am looking forward to, and I hope Celtic come out on top,” he said, as quoted by the Daily Record.
He continued, “I watched that game in February; the tempo they played with in the first 45 minutes blew Rangers away.
“I think if Celtic can go there, defend well, and play with a tempo and the high press, they can come away with the three points.
“Which would be massive.”
There have certainly been many changes and improvements since our last visit to Govan at the end of August – one of those particularly being the defensive line.
The arrival of Cameron Carter Vickers, who didn’t play in that 1-0 defeat, has seen the American internationalist create a solid partnership alongside Carl Starfelt, and the duo have continued to go from strength to strength.
Of course, both players are going to likely have more to do in this game than the reverse fixture back in February. But, at the same time, will be full of confidence going into it.
