Callum McGregor on how Celtic can make life ‘very difficult’ for Rangers this weekend

Celtic could take a major step towards lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy if they can defeat Rangers on Saturday.

Retaining a three-point gap heading into the Glasgow Derby, the Bhoys could put themselves on the brink with a victory, which would leave them needing one point against Kilmarnock the following Wednesday to secure the title mathematically.

Nevertheless, Rangers will arrive in Glasgow’s east end knowing they are in win-or-bust territory, signifying that Brendan Rodgers and company cannot take anything for granted at Parkhead.

Last time out against their city rivals, Celtic came away with a valuable point despite being 2-0 and 3-2 up at Ibrox, in an occasion that marked Callum McGregor’s first Game back from his Achilles problem.

The 30-year-old now appears to be back at full sharpness after building up his fitness, something that can prove increasingly difficult with age and the little rest the captain actually factors in amid his relentless commitment to the cause.

Per Transfermarkt, McGregor has made 41 appearances across all competitions this term, registering two goals and five assists.

Unquestionably, he will be the first name on the teamsheet for Rodgers against Rangers. His iNFLuence will be crucial in midfield, presumably alongside Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley.

Callum McGregor on the role Celtic fans have to play vs Rangers

With anticipation building ahead of the Glasgow Derby, Celtic fans will pack out the entirety of Parkhead to create a wall of noise against their bitter rivals.

In conversation with Celtic TV, McGregor signalled his belief that the players can harness the atmosphere in Glasgow’s east end as it is ‘very difficult’ to match anywhere else in world football.

Noting the challenges this could pose to Celtic’s adversaries, McGregor explained [Celtic FC]: “I’ve touched on it a lot that the supporters are vitally important for us, and when the place is rocking, the Football’s good. It’s very, very difficult to beat that atmosphere; it’s top-level.

“It’s about the players getting the crowd going, starting the Game quick and bringing the support into the Game. And if we do that, then we marry the two together and hopefully make it a difficult day for them.”

On derby day, there will be a sea of green and white on hand to back their side on a day with significant ramifications in the Scottish Premiership title race.

Three points would all but confirm Celtic as champions for a third successive year following a campaign filled with ups and downs; however, Rodgers’ men cannot afford to rest until the deed has been done.