Rangers all set to defy odds, says Warburton

MARK WARBURTON feels his Rangers players are ready to defy the ex-pros who have written them off with predictions of a painful Parkhead defeat. The Ibrox side are 9/2 outsiders with some bookmakers for the first Old Firm league match in four years, while several pundits have also tipped them to be swamped by an on-form Celtic. Warburton, though, can reflect on similar opinions being offered prior to last season’s Scottish Cup semi-final, which Rangers won on penalties. ‘It’s exactly the same scenario,’ he said. ‘We had analysis with the players yesterday and it was pointed out by many of them that it’s the same scenario. ‘People say we’re going to get beaten by three or four. I read “four minimum”, one very wise pundit said. You feed off it. ‘All I have read is that we are massive underdogs. If you read the media and listen to ex-players and ex-managers, there is no point in us turning up, which is fine. ‘As far as we are concerned, we have our own thoughts which will stay private. It is not about bookies’ odds. It is not about comments or opinions about us — go and give the performance.’ Asked if he could use the dismissal of Rangers’ chances as motivation, Warburton replied: ‘The players are not stupid. They’re not fools. ‘They read the papers and listen to the radio and they hear the comments. They are

not idiots. They understand what is being said. ‘What we say inside that room is obviously private, but we know ourselves what we can achieve and we know the quality in the squad. ‘We have made some very positive additions and we are looking forward to this game. ‘We have enough players who are not daunted by this game. ‘If you can’t enjoy playing in a good arena, with a 60,000 crowd and a good television audience as well, then don’t play the game of football.’ Joey Barton is certain to be the centre of much attention at Celtic Park after the midfielder’s past comments about Scott Brown and Brendan Rodgers. Warburton, though, believes