Celtic travel across Glasgow on Sunday to face bitter rivals Rangers at Ibrox.
Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie has told William Hill’s Open Goal channel that the reason for Rangers’ improved defence and organisation is down to the appointment of Jimmy Nicholl.
Rangers appointed 61-year-old Nicholl at the start of the year to be Graeme Murty’s assistant and since his arrival – along with the club’s decision to hand Murty the manager’s role until the end of the season – Rangers have been flying.
The Gers have won nine of their last 10 league and cup outings, keeping four clean sheets in the process and conceding just nine goals. The likes of David Bates, James Tavernier and Declan John have impressed at the back.
Nicholl (R).
Speaking ahead of this Sunday’s Old Firm derby, McAvennie told ex-Hoops midfielder Simon Ferry that he believes Nicholl is the Gers’ secret weapon and he could be the key in an unlikely Rangers win this weekend.
“The difference between the last time Rangers played against Celtic is the appointment of Jimmy Nicholl. He’s gone to Rangers and there’s no surprise they’ve tightened up,” McAvennie said.
“They’re better organised I think he is good for Murty. Murty is learning his game and Jimmy has been about the block three times. He knows what he is doing.”
Celtic themselves have been a bit of sticky form, losing to Kilmarnock and drawing against St. Johnstone in the league as well as being knocked out of the Europa League following a dismal performance away in Russia.
They will be without the likes of Craig Gordon, Mikael Lustig, Dedryck Boyata, Stuart Armstrong, Paddy Roberts, Jonny Hayes and Leigh Griffiths, but are still considered a stronger side on paper.
But the Gers will draw confidence from their recent form and the fact that Murty has not lost against Celtic when in charge of the Light Blues, drawing 0-0 and 1-1.
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