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that gap. We have to go there with belief that we can get something out of the game.

“We have to make it as difficult an afternoon for them as possible.

“Brendan came in at Liverpool as I went out. It was the right decision for both of us.

“We worked together at Chelsea so I know enough about him. At that stage when he was coming through to be a manager, I was also setting out on my own path to be a boss.

“We never had the chance to work together but I knew Brendan was a determined, ambitious and organised football coach. When you have those characteristics you can go a long way.”

It’s 100 years since Killie beat Celtic to bring to an end their unbeaten domestic run of 62 games. Coincidentally, Rodgers men will attempt to make it 62 domestic matches undefeated today.

Clarke added: “I was aware of this but unfortunately the players who played all those years ago are unavailable to me!

“If we could do the same it would be great. It is a striking parallel and it is strange how these things seem to unfold.”

Meanwhile Killie defender Stuart Findlay reckons they have turned a corner after beating Partick and then drawing 1-1 with Rangers at Ibrox on Wednesday.

The ex-Celtic stopper said: “Those games showed a steelier side to our game.

“We are now going into games with no fear.

“We know what Celtic can do but we won’t be in awe of them.”