Dyer views Old Firm as mere sideshow

ALEX DYER has no interest in appearing as a footnote when the current Premiership title race comes to its conclusion. For the Kilmarnock boss, Celtic’s visit to Rugby Park tonight is all about one team: his own. As the league resumes after three weeks of a phoney if colourful war of words, it would be easy to presume everyone is focused on the big two fighting it out at the top. But, as Dyer is quick to point out, the stresses and strains of that battle are the concern of the Old Firm clubs. His priority is to get Kilmarnock back on track after two months without a league victory. ‘I am not too fussed whether it is a title race between those two,’ said Dyer, with Killie having beaten both Celtic and Rangers at Rugby Park last season. ‘It is more about Kilmarnock trying to finish the season as high as possible. If that means beating Celtic, so be it. ‘It is not about me trying to dent their hopes — that doesn’t come in to it — it is about Kilmarnock trying to get three points. ‘They have their own agenda and so have we. Obviously, they are going for the title and we are going for the top six. ‘We both have targets. It’s all about trying to win the game. ‘It is going to be tough. We will work hard and put them under pressure.’ Kilmarnock midfielder Alan Power would like nothing more than another Old Firm scalp. The 31-year-old Irishman admits he enjoys the visits of the Glasgow giants, saying: ‘The atmosphere is always electric, which helps us as well. ‘I always like to upset any Old Firm team. It is always good to get a scalp whenever you can — for team confidence. ‘We did it a couple of times last season, so we know what we can do. Celtic will know what we are capable of. They will be eager to come here and get a result but they know they are in for a tough game.’