When Philippe Clement took charge at Rangers it was hard to imagine the Ibrox side would be where they are in the title race with Celtic.
Seven points behind our Old Firm rivals with our team seemingly unbalanced and unworthy, Clement has transformed the club’s squad into a team of title hopefuls within five months.
What it means in mathematical terms is that if Rangers can beat Celtic at Ibrox next week then they will move two ahead of them in the table, with a game in hand on Dundee the following Wednesday.
After Celtic overcame a fraught first-half to defeat relegation-doomed Livingston, it’s now all focus on Ibrox with the Parkhead side’s status as league leaders adding extra spice to the occasion.
Rangers can rattle Celtic with Old Firm victory
Though Rangers have a game in hand, they technically go into the game as chasers and that unexpected dynamic shift following a controversial Dens Park call-off is a notable one.
Whilst the Gers undoubtedly have a slender advantage in the title race, that old adage about points on the board springs to mind.
The challenge for Rangers is to show they have what it takes to go on and lift this trophy by defeating Celtic, sending a message about the club’s intentions this season.
Anything but victory and there will remain questions about the side’s title credentials but with every challenge comes a fresh opportunity.
Rangers know that victory can suck the spirit out of Celtic’s title resistance and shake at least one of their paws from its grip heading into the final six matches of the season.
A potential five point swing is an big advantage to have at this stage but before we can get there we have to get through next week.
Big day ahead for Ibrox matchwinners
This Rangers team are yet to beat Celtic this season and the jury remains out surrounding several of the club’s top stars when it comes to this fixture.
The likes of Cyriel Dessers, Abdallah Sima, and Tom Lawrence have never imposed themselves on the game whilst Fabio Silva and Mohamed Diomande have never played in the match.
The reputation of Rangers’ matchwinners could be on the line in this match heading into the summer and it’s time for them to stand up and be counted.
It’s all eyes on next Sunday’s high-noon showdown between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox and if it goes in Philippe Clement’s favour, we’ll be very close to having one hand on the trophy.
