Thompson identifies what Rangers are missing ahead of Celtic clash

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Ibrox club Rangers travel across Glasgow to face Celtic on Saturday.

Former Rangers striker Steven Thompson has told BBC Sportscene’s Facebook Live channel that Rangers are lacking leadership and Old Firm experience ahead of Saturday’s clash against Celtic.

Graeme Murty takes his side to Parkhead tasked with avoiding defeat against Brendan Rodgers’ all-conquering Celtic side, who have won six of the seven meetings between the two rivals since Rangers gained promotion back to the top flight.

Murty was in charge for Rangers’ 1-1 draw against Celtic in March of this year, as he saw veteran defender Clint Hill score late on to cancel out Stuart Armstrong’s opener.

But Thompson believes Rangers’ side will be weaker than the team he submitted nine months ago, as the side lack the know how of an Old Firm derby with Lee Wallace and Kenny Miller sidelined.

“There’s always a chance,” Thompson said. “I don’t know. Graeme Murty took a team to Parkhead last season and got a draw, which was a great result and they played really well.

“But I think that team is slightly stronger than the team he is going to be able to put out tomorrow. I think his team misses leadership and misses Old Firm experience. When you play an Old Firm game, you need to be prepared. It’s daunting.

“Bruno Alves has played in massive games, but I guarantee tomorrow will be different. They lack leadership, could’ve done with Kenny Miller and Lee Wallace. Celtic’s team is full of players that have Old Firm know how.”

Rangers will also be without midfielders Jordan Rossiter and Graham Dorrans, and could well be without one-time Scotland international Ryan Jack who was stretchered off the field of play on Wednesday night against Motherwell.

Celtic also have their own injury problems, with Patrick Roberts still missing through a muscle injury and Jonny Hayes breaking his leg against Dundee on Boxing Day.

Celtic can go 14 points clear of third-placed Rangers with a win, as they remain eight points in front of Derek McInnes’ Aberdeen who play against Hearts at Pittodrie.