Ange Postecoglou isn’t getting the sense there’s been a muted build-up to today’s Celtic Park derby against Rangers, despite lots going on for both clubs over the last ten days.
With Champions League draws, mid-week matches and the end of the transfer window, life at the Bhoys has been busy and exciting for all concerned – with today’s fixture always looming on the horizon.
Ange is relishing this derby as much as any other big game and, in his pre-match media session with the written press, gave a brilliant response when asked about the ramp-up to the occasion.
As quoted by The Glasgow Times, he said: “It might be low key in your household mate, but I can assure you I’ve not seen that to be the case! People haven’t failed to mention the fact we’re playing a derby. It’s a significant game. We obviously had an important game on Wednesday to make sure we maintained our good form and this will be a good challenge for us.
“They have started the season strongly as well and we’ll have to play to the best of our ability. At the same time, we’ve been consistent and improved a little every week, and that’s what we’ll take into this game. We know we are hard to stop when we are at our best.
“You want to be involved in big games and test yourself against the best all the time. If you don’t enjoy these games you’re better off not being part of a football club like this.
“It’s part of the attraction of this job. It doesn’t matter if it’s your sixth or 60th derby. Ask Callum McGregor or James Forrest if they are any less excited just because they’ve been here a while. We know the atmosphere will be great, the contest will be strong and you want it to be in these environments.”
It doesn’t get less exciting for Celtic regardless of today’s outcome either, with Champions League holders Real Madrid just a few days away from their trip to Glasgow.
These are the big moments that our players and coaching staff must live for and thrive on. The message from Postecoglou is that this appears to be the case.
The team must attack today in the manner the occasion deserves and not shy away from what it means or how invested the sold-out crowd is. Thankfully, the manager is setting the perfect tone for a brave, committed performance.
Come full-time, hopefully that is what we are reflecting on.
In other news, “It’s not that straightforward”; Ange Postecoglou on long-term Oliver Abildgaard Celtic option.
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