Stanislav Varga says the Bhoys need their rivals in the same division to remain competitive and motivated.
Former Celtic defender Stanislas Varga has claimed to bwin that the club have been negatively affected by Rangers’ absence from the Scottish Premiership.
The Bhoys have not faced their arch-rivals in the league since the Gers went into liquidation four years ago, although they have met in cup competitions during that time.
In the four seasons since Rangers were forced out of the Premiership, Celtic have won four league titles in a row, and are still in pole position for a fifth in a row this season under Ronny Deila.
However, they have come under criticism at times during this campaign for a perceived drop in quality and competitiveness under Deila, and Vargas, who won five trophies in three years at Parkhead, believes that is a consequence of not having the challenge of Rangers.
He told bwin: “I think Celtic really miss those Old Firm derbies now, as they were amazing games, special to play in as a player and the atmosphere was incredible.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to play in some special derbies, but Celtic vs Rangers was always the best.
“Players were always amped up for those games and I think that the lack of them has really affected Celtic, as other teams in the league aren’t pushing them how Rangers used to when I played.”
The two clubs will meet this season despite being in different divisions, when they meet next month in the Scottish Cup semi-final.
Their rivalry looks certain to resume on a regular basis next season as Rangers close in on promotion back to the top flight, sitting 14 points clear at the top of the Scottish Championship with a game in hand.
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