Davie Provan tips Celtic for derby success; says Bhoys ‘were mugged’ in the last one

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Davie Provan is backing Celtic to be very competitive against Rangers in tomorrow’s derby match at Celtic Park.

The Bhoys haven’t picked up a victory against Steven Gerrard’s outfit since 2019 but Provan isn’t buying into the hype about a massive gap between the quality of the two sides.

Yes, the Ibrox team have streaked ahead in the Scottish Premiership table this season, but the Sky Sports pundit reckons Celtic could be more up for this one than their rivals.

Writing in his Scottish Sun column, Provan explained: “I don’t see Steven Gerrard’s team being right at it for this one. Rangers have had a draining week. From the euphoria of the previous weekend, they went straight into a demanding Europa League tie.

“By contrast, Celtic have had all week to prepare. With more rest and home advantage, there are no excuses for John Kennedy’s side.

“If nothing else, a group of players who cost Neil Lennon his job owe the supporters. Before the inevitable summer clear-out of the dressing room, there’s kudos to be earned by beating the champions.

“Despite the stats, I don’t buy the 20-point gap between the two clubs. Celts bossed the last derby and were mugged. On their day, they’re a match for Rangers.”

Celtic do owe fans; win over Rangers would be a great start on road to redemption

This team have undoubtedly failed supporters this year. As Provan says, they do owe fans for their awful collapse this term. Yes, blame also has to be shared with Neil Lennon, the coaching staff and the board, but these players don’t get off with it.

A win on Sunday would be a great start to rebuilding the damaged relationship between players and supporters. If anyone wants a future at Celtic Park, tomorrow is the time to show it.

I wouldn’t say I’m confident about Celtic’s chances tomorrow. It’s going to be a very tough encounter. Rangers are a continental-calibre outfit and despite their exertions over the last fortnight, they’ll be right up for this one.

However, this could well be Celtic’s best chance of destroying their chances of an unbeaten season. The players must take it.

In other news, Steve Clarke didn’t speak to David Turnbull about his Scotland decision.