Rangers Manager Philippe Clement States Old Firm Game Against Celtic Won't Decide Premiership Title

Rangers manager Philippe Clement has downplayed the decisive nature of the upcoming Old Firm clash against Celtic, despite the tight race for the cinch Premiership title. With only eight games left in the season, Rangers trail the reigning champions by a mere point, albeit with a game in hand. The significance of Sunday's match at Ibrox is undeniable, yet Clement stresses it won't crown the champions just yet.

The Belgian coach reflected on his team's performance since their last encounter with Celtic, highlighting an impressive run of 30 points from a possible 33. This streak of form has seen Rangers not only outscore Celtic but also concede fewer goals, showcasing a newfound consistency under Clement's stewardship. The upcoming match is seen as a crucial test, but not a definitive one for Rangers' title aspirations.

On the injury front, Clement provided an update on left-back Ridvan Yilmaz, who sustained an injury while on international duty with Turkey. The decision on Yilmaz's inclusion in the squad will be made closer to match day. Additionally, Abdallah Sima is deemed fit enough to participate but may not last the entire 90 minutes, leaving Clement with strategic decisions to make regarding his deployment.

Clement also touched on the psychological aspect of the game, emphasizing his desire for a resilient team that neither dwells on past disappointments nor rests on its laurels after victories. This mindset has been a cornerstone of Rangers' approach throughout the season, ensuring that the team remains focused on the task at hand regardless of previous outcomes.

As Rangers prepare to host Celtic in what promises to be a pivotal moment in the title race, Clement's message is clear: while Sunday's game is important, it is but one of many challenges that lie ahead in their quest for Premiership glory. With a larger squad and improved results, Rangers are poised to continue their growth and face their next challenge head-on.

The Old Firm derby remains one of the most anticipated fixtures in Scottish football, and while Sunday's match may not determine the eventual champions, it will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the title race. As both teams gear up for this crucial encounter, the focus remains on delivering a performance worthy of their respective ambitions.