Kris Boyd claims he knows what Celtic are ‘thinking’ ahead of Rangers derby clash

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Amid Celtic scrambling around to get transfer deals done, there’s a Glasgow derby to contend with.

Sunday’s clash against Rangers at Ibrox is absolutely huge for managers Brendan Rodgers and Russell Martin, the latter taking charge of his first Glasgow derby.

Rodgers needs a win to put some smiles back on Celtic fans’ faces after a horrendous transfer window and a failure to reach the Champions League.

While Rangers are in a sorry state as usual, losing 6-0 to Club Brugge on Wednesday night and fans screaming for Martin to be sacked.

• READ MORE: Liverpool had transfer ‘offer turned down’ by Celtic for youngster who has now left Parkhead

Boyd on what Celtic are thinking before playing Rangers

Kris Boyd has been previewing the first derby of the season and told the Daily Record what he believes Celtic’s mindset will be heading into the game.

The former Ibrox striker insists the Bhoys will want to put a marker down and effectively end any sort of Scottish Premiership title race between the Glasgow giants this campaign.

He also says Martin has much more pressure on his shoulders than Rodgers over the outcome of the result.

Boyd said: “Celtic will be thinking they want to come into the Old Firm at the weekend and stamp their authority over Rangers and potentially have one hand on the title before the end of August.

“Rangers have performed well in these games recently, but this is definitely a more important fixture for Russell Martin rather than Brendan Rodgers.

“Whatever happens, Rangers must find a positive result. Otherwise, the pressure will just intensify on Russell Martin and his players. It’s a huge game that could potentially get the fans off their back if they win it.”

Celtic injury news vs Rangers

How are Celtic shaping up squad-wise then? Brendan Rodgers confirmed to the press that Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Marcelo Saracchi can make the squad for the derby after being registered in time.

Anthony Ralston was seen taking painkillers against Kairat Almaty in midweek, and the right-back did not train on Friday.

However, the Celtic manager thinks Ralston will be able to train on Saturday. The confirmed absentees are Jota, Alistair Johnston and Auston Trusty through injury.