Strach: Gers have to mind how they go
GORDON STRACHAN insists Celtic are streets ahead of Rangers in coping with Old Firm mind games.
The former Hoops boss believes his old club’s ability to manage tomorrow’s Ibrox derby has handed them a major advantage over a rookie Light Blues side.
A record of 10 wins and two draws for the champions from their previous 12 clashes has left Strachan in no doubt that Brendan Rodgers’ players are better equipped to make it unlucky 13 for their Ibrox rivals.
He said: “Celtic are the more grounded squad, they’ve known each other for a long time as the group has been together since Brendan went there.
“That’s why I say they’re two years ahead of Rangers, in terms of match preparation, team shape and consistency in the group. They’ve also got a right good experience of the Old Firm games now.
“There are some in the Rangers team who haven’t played that many. That matters. You need to know how to handle it.
“There is a point where people can get over-psyched and too worked up over the game.
“You can always find an angle in an Old Firm game but because of the gulf between the two clubs in the last few years, I don’t think they’ve been as exciting as this one is.
“There’s definitely a wee edge to this one.
“Celtic have fallen short compared to their standards of the last two seasons, so for them to be top of the league, it shows they’ve got something about them.”
Gers boss Steven Gerrard has thrown the gauntlet down to the walking wounded in his squad to step up to the plate for one last push before the winter break.
But Strachan is convinced the Scouser could be doing more damage than good by issuing his rallying call after a Boxing Day draw with Hibs.
He said: “Steven has been trying to gee his squad up after the Hibs draw. But there’s a risk you can go over the top with the psyching up.
“He needs to find a balance, whether that’s what he says to the media, in the dressing room or in team meetings.”
Gordon Strachan was speaking exclusively to Paddy Power News. To read more, visit news. paddypower.com.