Celtic captain Callum McGregor has urged his teammates to start fast at Ibrox on Thursday as the league leaders face Rangers in a Glasgow Derby with no away supporters present.
The unusual atmosphere, with only Rangers fans in the stadium, presents a unique challenge for Brendan Rodgers’ side as they look to extend their commanding 14-point lead at the top of the Premiership.
The Hoops set the tone early in their last visit to Ibrox in April, with Daizen Maeda striking within the first minute in a pulsating 3-3 draw. McGregor believes another high-energy opening could be key to quieting the home crowd and taking control of the match.
The Hoops did have a 2-goal lead, but a contentious penalty allowed Rangers to start their comeback.
Speaking ahead of the derby, McGregor emphasised the importance of silencing the Ibrox crowd.
“It’s always important for us to start the game fast, no matter where we are playing, but in terms of not having any supporters there that makes it even more important to start the game well and turn the atmosphere in our favour.
“We always try to do that anyway but especially in a game like this.”
Thursday’s clash is the latest in a series of derbies played without away supporters, a decision taken by both clubs amid ongoing disputes over ticket allocations. While Celtic fans are disappointed not to back their team at Ibrox, the club hopes the remaining two derby matches this season will feature 2,500 away supporters in each end, restoring the fixture’s iconic two-sided atmosphere.
The absence of away fans adds an extra layer of pressure for the visitors, who must contend with a hostile home crowd while maintaining their focus on the pitch.
Celtic head into the match in dominant form, unbeaten domestically this season and fresh off a 4-0 victory over St Johnstone. With 52 league goals scored and just four conceded, Brendan Rodgers’ side is brimming with confidence.
The derby provides an opportunity for the Hoops to effectively end the title race before the season’s halfway point. A win at Ibrox would extend their lead over Rangers to 17 points, leaving their rivals with little hope of mounting a challenge.
In contrast, Rangers are reeling from a string of poor results, including a 2-1 loss to St Mirren and a 2-2 draw with Motherwell. With injuries mounting and manager Philippe Clement under increasing scrutiny, the Ibrox side faces a daunting task against their in-form rivals.
Adding to their woes, key players such as James Tavernier and John Souttar are unavailable, leaving Rangers’ defence stretched thin against Celtic’s potent attack.
