DEMBELE’S OUT AFTER TRANSFER STROP
THE content of Steven Gerrard’s recent text message exchange with Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers would have contained good luck and best wishes. Congratulations on reaching the Europa League group stage and possibly some gentle banter.
But the Rangers gaffer insists tomorrow’s Old Firm baptism is where the pleasantries will stop as two tribes go to war in a match that many believe will shape his revamped side’s season.
Gerrard’s nothing if not grounded, the Liverpool legend knows a trip to Glasgow’s east end is going to be provide the ultimate challenge against a team who have raised the bar for excellence in recent seasons.
He said: “It’s a chance to put a marker down. Having said that if we win the game I won’t get carried away thinking we’re the next champions. I won’t blow it up to something that it’s not.
“At the same time if it doesn’t go well I won’t think the world is going to end and my team’s no good because we’ve failed the acid test.
“We’re in a good place and have come far in a short space of time. I believe we’re a different squad mentally and physically since the team that last went from here to face the acid test. Celtic are double treble champions (inset), we respect that because we know how difficult that is to do. They have a good manager and players.
“It’s a big test but every challenge we have faced so far we have done ourselves proud and I expect the players to do it again.”
There’s an added subplot as the former Liverpool skipper takes on his old Anfield boss.
But Gerrard said: “We exchanged messages last night. It was nothing major. It makes it that little bit spicier and juicier. It’s great for the neutrals and whoever else wants to enjoy that. For us we have a job to do and that’s get a result at Celtic Park.” Celtic’s preparations have been rocked by rumours of conflict between boardroom and boss as well as the public spat between the club and now departed striker Moussa Dembele.
But defensive malfunctions and talk of being a diminished force aren’t leading to a false sense of security in the Ibrox camp.
Gerrard said: “It would be very naive of us to underestimate the challenge and personnel they’ve got. It’s a huge game for them as it is for us so we don’t expect a weak Celtic team or one that’s going to lie down. We expect a really tough game.
“If there is no Dembele, there’s no Dembele but we’ll prepare for a good Celtic team. We wait to see the teamsheet come in.” Gerrard may be bracing himself for an Old Firm managerial debut but he revealed he’s well briefed on what to expect as he’s a seasoned campaigner when it comes to watching from the stand as a spectator.
He said: “I’ve been to a few Old Firm games. The atmosphere stands out. Both sets of fans get right behind the team. The game’s renowned throughout the world. I am really looking forward to it.”
Meanwhile, Rodgers did have some advice as he gets set to square up with his pal tomorrow – brace yourself.
The Ulsterman said: “He’ll feel the sense of occasion, that’s for sure. Steven is from Merseyside and as a local boy he experienced the whole Liverpool v Everton thing, or the Liverpool and Man Utd thing.
“But he’ll feel the raw passion. This game is different. I’m sure it’s an occasion he’ll really enjoy because it’s wonderful as a coach or manager to go in to these arenas. This is what football’s all about.”
Rodgers is now on to his fourth Rangers manager, having seen off the other three in 11 unbeaten clashes in two seasons with an incredible 30-6 aggregate.
He admitted Gers look a different animal and added: “Stevie’s made a really good start. He’s adapted very well, he’s brought in some good players. There’s good organisation, they’ve got that wee bit of spirit.” ground yesterday. Boss Rodgers - who snapped up loan defender Filip Benkovic and midfielder Yousouff Mulumbu on deadline day - banished the hitman (above) after just 15 minutes.
He later admitted the player’s attempts to force a move left a bad taste.
He said: “It’s disappointing. When Moussa came into here, like a number of the players, he signed for four years.
“There was never a promise or anything like that made.
“But that’s modern football. You just need to deal with it. We will have a team on Sunday that’s super committed and looking to get the result.”
The striker was hauled off the pitch after refusing to commit to the session. Rodgers insisted Dembele had to be removed as the Hoops squad were put through their paces. The manager said: “The rest of the players trained very well. We had recovering players from last night and the two new guys came in and fitted in very well. My job is to protect the environment and how we work.”
The club later confirmed they had accepted an offer from Lyon and Rodgers set out their reasons. In a statement, he said:
“Every decision we make at Celtic will always be in the best interests of the club and our supporters.”
LADBROKES PREMIER