Danny Rohl believes Celtic are feeling the pressure ahead of the Old Firm clash and has challenged Rangers to increase that tension by claiming a statement win at Parkhead.
The Ibrox manager senses uncertainty within the Celtic camp following a difficult start for new head coach Wilfried Nancy, who has overseen five defeats in his opening seven matches. Rangers, meanwhile, have surged back into the Premiership title picture, with Rohl suffering just one league loss since taking charge.
Rohl has urged his players to set the tone early on Saturday and take advantage of any anxiety among the champions. Asked whether Celtic are under greater pressure, he said he feels nerves are evident but stressed that Rangers must focus on their own approach.
He believes a strong, aggressive start could unsettle the hosts, adding that winning second balls and playing on the front foot could tilt the psychological balance. However, he acknowledged that allowing Celtic early momentum would quickly energise the home crowd. For Rohl, the derby is as much about mindset and emotion as it is about tactics.
While he accepted the match is officially worth three points, he emphasised that the Old Firm fixture always carries far greater significance. A win, he said, would be a major boost for Rangers given their current position, though he also insisted the season would still have plenty of life even if they fell short.
Victory at Celtic Park would pull Rangers level on points with their rivals, leaving them just behind league leaders Hearts.
Rohl admitted he inherited a squad lacking belief, uncertain about where results would come from. Since then, a run of six clean sheets and consistent performances has helped restore confidence, and he says the mood around Ibrox has changed significantly.
He explained that a win on Saturday would further elevate belief within the group, noting how focused and determined his players now appear compared to when he first arrived. He also highlighted the team’s growing adaptability, pointing to goals from open play, set pieces and counter-attacks, as well as their improved defensive solidity.
The Rangers boss confirmed that Bojan Miovski and Dujon Sterling will return to the squad for the trip across Glasgow. He had hoped to add a new signing before the derby but accepts that is now unlikely, although work continues behind the scenes to strengthen the squad during January.
Rohl said transfers can move quickly, especially late in the window, and while no deal is expected imminently, the club remains active in the market. He stressed the importance of patience and timing, recalling previous windows where signings arrived late but still proved valuable.
He also revealed a desire to add competition at left-back. While he is pleased with Jayden Meghoma’s recent progress, particularly defensively, he acknowledged the lack of natural left-sided options. Rohl has been linked with AEK Athens full-back James Penrice and Westerlo defender Tuur Rommens, and confirmed that strengthening that area is under consideration.
For now, his focus remains firmly on Saturday’s derby and ensuring Rangers are ready to seize the opportunity in front of them.