The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
McLeish savours the Old Firm derby rivalry
Alex McLeish reckons Scottish football should embrace the rivalry between Celtic and Rangers rather than being fearful of the consequences of title deciders.
The Scotland manager, however, has warned that the winners and losers of Sunday’s Parkhead match need to be mindful of their responsibilities in making sure it is football that is the talking point. Celtic will clinch the Premiership trophy if they beat Rangers, after defeat by Hibernian last weekend delayed the Hoops’ title party.
The Scottish Professional Football League has been keen to ensure the Glasgow pair are kept apart on days which might potentially decide the title.
A 1999 encounter in which Rangers won the title at Celtic Park saw referee Hugh Dallas hit by a coin, some home supporters invade the pitch and Rangers players pelted with missiles.
Former Don McLeish, however, believes Scottish football should accentuate the positives of the rivalry.
“They are two powerful clubs, two fantastic supports, but they have to show dignity in these games – win, lose or draw – and enjoy the spectacle,” the ex-Gers manager said.
“We are lucky to have this derby. People all over the world want to see the Old Firm games before a lot of other huge clubs. It is a spectacle to behold. If everyone can keep their control, we should be proud of that.”
Celtic beat Rangers 4-0 in the Scottish Cup semifinals this month and are unbeaten in 10 meetings between the teams but McLeish knows the game does not always go as expected.
“I can imagine the week that (Rangers boss) Graeme Murty had after the Celtic game but you bounce back with a good result,” said McLeish yesterday.
“Celtic have got to be huge favourites, certainly on recent form and the recent result, but there is always hope in these games for the opposition who haven’t been doing very well. Rangers haven’t done well in these games.
“The odds will be stacked against them but you can never say an Old Firm game is going to go exactly to plan.”