Philippe Clement makes bold claim before facing Celtic

it would be safe to say that Philippe Clement does not have a good record against Celtic. Form and history often go out of the window when it comes to the Glasgow Derby. Every contest is played out in somewhat of an isolation. It is one of the biggest games in football and the pressure is always there to deliver, no matter what position either team is in coming into the match.

It would be safe to say though that Clement has to deliver in the Glasgow Derby, sooner or later. Otherwise, it would not take long for the Rangers fans to call for his departure.

Clement was handed a long-term contract extension just recently but the Rangers' start to the season has been far from impressive. On the other hand, Celtic have looked good. But they have just said goodbye to their best player, with Matt O'Riley joining Brighton & Hove Albion.

Clement seems to be confident about his team's quality heading into the big game though. As reported by STV News, the Rangers manager said:

"I think because of a lot of situations there’s been a negative perception around the club, the stadium, elimination from the Champions League.

“People forget what is going well. Last week we won 6-0 and it could have been more than six. So it’s not all bad.

“This is an exciting project and an exciting squad now. It’s not the finished article and I know we are going play against a team with a lot of experience who have played for a long time together.

“We are the young, exciting team who want to challenge that now. But I believe we also have the quality to challenge that and go full out for the three points."

Philippe Clement makes bold claim before facing Celtic

Celtic cannot make the mistake of taking the Rangers lightly for even a second. One bad day at the office and it could turn the entire momentum of the title race, even this early in the season.

Hopefully, Celtic will bring their A-game to Parkhead this weekend. They have been on a good run against the Rangers in recent seasons. Let's hope that continues for as long as possible.

Of course, none of this will be news to Brendan Rodgers. He has seen it all and done it all when it comes to the Scottish game. He has outlasted more Rangers managers than one can recall off the top of their head. Will the name of Clement be added to that list someday?