Former Rangers player criticises Celtic star’s comments

Celtic’s victory over Dundee FC was all the more important given events that unfolded at Tannadice earlier in the day, with the Rangers dropping two valuable points against Dundee United, after their midweek win over Borussia Dortmund. This sent the Hoops three points clear and encouraged Giorgos Giakoumakis to claim that he believes the club will win the title. His comments are sure to have not gone down well in the Blue side of Glasgow.

Former Rangers full-back, Maurice Ross, has expressed his opinion over the comments made by Giakoumakis, who netted a crucial hat-trick against Dundee FC, in a five-goal thriller.

Ross believes that the in-form striker’s remarks were premature, and simply offer extra motivation for the Rangers players to revitalize their faltering title campaign. The Ibrox side have not registered a win in their last four league away fixtures, which also includes a convincing 3-0 defeat at Parkhead.

However, Ross suggested that the Greek striker needed to show a bit more humility and respect. As reported by the Daily Record, the former Rangers player said:

"“I think he needs to be a bit more humble.“If I was in the Rangers dressing room, those comments would just be fuel for me.“Celtic were better than Rangers two weeks ago, that we can all agree on. I think the Rangers players would agree on that as well.“But Celtic have been top of the league for about 10 minutes this season.“A wee bit of humility and a wee bit of respect would be a better way of going about your business.”"

Ross, who took over as Cowdenbeath manager in November, also emphasized on the small margins in this season’s title race:

"“Celtic are a good side, as are Rangers, so this title race is going to go to the wire.“I think it will come down to the two remaining Old Firm matches if I’m honest.”"

Former Rangers player criticises Celtic star’s comments

The Glasgow Derby fixture has witnessed a victory a piece so far this season, with home advantage clearly vital amidst ongoing restrictions on away support attendance. This is a trend that may well continue.

The Rangers welcome Celtic to Ibrox in early April, before Paradise hosts what could be a title showdown.

Regardless of the impact of Giakoumakis’ comments, the Hoops will feel well-positioned for the remaining eleven games. Sunday’s result opened up a three-point gap between first and second, with Celtic enjoying a superior goal difference at the moment.

Now, we await to see whether another man with Greek connections can steer Celtic back to the summit of Scottish football.