Celtic are looking for an advantageous result against Rangers this weekend, which would bring their dreams of a domestic double closer to reality.
The Bhoys sit top of the Scottish Premiership with 84 points to their rivals’ 81, and they know that claiming three points will put the destination of the league title beyond doubt due to retaining a superior goal difference.
On the same token, a draw wouldn’t hold terrible permutations either, as it would act to maintain parity heading into their last two matches against Kilmarnock and St Mirren.
Nevertheless, although confidence may be brewing from some supporters, Brendan Rodgers is fully aware that twists and turns are the bedrock of a title race, so the Irishman won’t be jumping to any conclusions during his players’ preparation at Lennoxtown this week.
Over the years, Celtic have shown the requisite qualities to navigate difficult battles and emerge out the other end silverware in hand, sewing the seeds of a win-at-all-costs mentality that has transcended managers due to the influence of Callum McGregor and James Forrest, among others.
Both spent their football upbringing learning the ropes at Parkhead, and their presence in the dressing room is crucial to maintaining an element of tranquillity.
There is also a large core of the squad who have been here long enough to achieve sustained success, which has bred a culture of winning football that new arrivals can tap into for years to come.
Charlie Mulgrew on how Celtic will approach Glasgow Derby
Former Celtic man Charlie Mulgrew was a prominent winner in the Glasgow Derby and will be all too aware of the pressure on his old side to get one over Rangers on every occasion, as both clash.
Speaking to Sky Sports Scotland, the former Scotland international echoed the sentiment that the Bhoys won’t be overthinking Saturday’s fixture, claiming that in-house, Celtic will treat the visit of Philippe Clement’s outfit like they would any other game.
He explained: “I don’t think there’s much point in overthinking the game, overthinking the occasion. Everybody knows the importance of the game.
“It is important, as much as the fans will be anxious and building the occasion up, it is important in-house that the Celtic players and staff approach it like any other game; that’s difficult, but you’ve got to approach it and take care of the 90 minutes and look to put on a performance and stick to the game plan the manager will have put in place.”
Celtic need to win their key battles against Rangers
As the cliche goes, Glasgow Derby matches are dictated by which midfield manages to wrestle control of proceedings; however, there are battles all over the pitch that Celtic need to win.
Every man has a duty to fulfil his role efficiently; nevertheless, there is no doubt Rodgers will have a rough idea of how his side will approach the fixture, something he has to be confident in carrying out to perfection.
The Irishman has already taken seven points from an available nine against Rangers this season. Come full-time, he will expect to extend that tally, make no mistake about it.