Renowned former Rangers manager Graeme Souness has delivered a powerful message to the current Ibrox squad, emphasizing that they should not rely on comments from Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers to motivate them for the upcoming Old Firm clash.
Rodgers’ lighthearted remarks following Celtic’s recent victory over Hearts hinted at an upcoming entertaining showdown with Philippe Clement’s team at Parkhead. However, these comments were deemed disrespectful by Clement after his own team’s convincing win over Kilmarnock, tightening the gap at the top of the table.
Many speculate that Rodgers’ words will serve as added fuel for Rangers as they prepare to face the defending champions in a crucial match with significant implications for the Scottish title race. Nevertheless, Souness, a football icon who guided Rangers to success in the past, downplays the significance of external motivators.
Souness, recognized with a special merit award at the PFA Scotland Player and Manager of the Year awards, believes that players like James Tavernier should be able to self-motivate for such high-stakes encounters without external influences.
Reflecting on his own experiences as a player and manager, Souness affirmed his philosophy of internal drive and focus over external inputs. He emphasized the inherent magnitude of the Old Firm fixture and the need for unwavering concentration and composure on the field.
Highlighting the caliber of players he had the privilege of leading in past Old Firm battles, Souness underscored the importance of character and mental strength in winning such intense matchups. He praised his former players’ ability to rise to the occasion, demonstrating why they excelled in high-pressure games.
Souness reminisced about the stalwart personalities in his squad and their innate readiness for pivotal clashes, suggesting that mere external comments were inconsequential in their preparation. With their legendary players and substantial historical rivalry, Souness conveyed his belief that Rangers can rise to the challenge without external motivation.
As Rangers gear up to face Celtic at a fan-less Parkhead due to ticketing disputes, the hosts remain unbeaten in Old Firm encounters this season, making them the favorites heading into this crucial matchup.
Souness expresses confidence in Clement’s squad to emerge victorious and enhance their chances of claiming the title by effectively handling the intense atmosphere generated by the 60,000-strong crowd in the East End of Glasgow.
“The victory of Rangers against Kilmarnock on Sunday sets the stage perfectly,” he remarked. “Both teams are aware of their tasks at hand.
“A derby match like this is unpredictable. While Rangers would have preferred to face Celtic at Ibrox, this is how the fixtures have fallen. It appears that this fixture will be crucial, and the players must simply adapt.
“Being a top player at Rangers or Celtic demands embracing expectations, enduring pressure, and getting the job done.”