Rodgers claims Clement’s anger over Old Firm remark is ‘without merit at all

“I’ve never described these games as anything other than competitive and intense. It’s one of the most famous football matches in history. And I adore it. The immense satisfaction and honour I have in leading Celtic in a Rangers game is one of the reasons I am here.

“So, this game’s entire atmosphere and mood are just incredible. I’ve seen a few headlines about disrespect and other things, but they are completely unfounded. That was never mentioned in that context, and I would never be the one to treat a manager or team disrespectfully.

Rodgers’ reasoning made sense; following the team’s 3-0 victory over Hearts the previous weekend, this appeared to be a harmless time. Rangers gave up ground to Celtic at Dundee and Ross County, and Clement appears to be a man under pressure. Not only is Rodgers’ confidence and composure evident, but it also makes sense. With the exception of the 2020–21 season, which was disrupted by Covid, Celtic has dominated Scottish football for more than ten years.

Rodgers credits the return of important players from injuries for Celtics’ current success, noting that they have only lost once since mid-December. Nonetheless, there is a specialisation in courses and distant learning that influences club culture. “I see players here and people here that have done it when I look around the team and at the staff,” Rodgers remarked.

“They are aware of the requirements. McGregor Callum. Forrest James. Several more men who have been here for a few years and have completed the task. On the crew is John Kennedy, the assistant manager. On staff is the goalkeeping coach, Stevie Woods. That offers you the assurance and comprehension of what’s required. Once you have it, you may tackle this with a focus-inducing calmness on the performance and not get too carried away with all the noise.

“We still have a huge task ahead of us, which will begin tomorrow. We are almost there if we can deliver a strong performance and positive outcomes, but there is still much work ahead of us. The players are really deserving of praise. Because they have persevered, believed in the process, and remained strong when the flak has been flying, which it has been for a large portion of this season.

Rangers were seven points behind Celtic when Clement took over for Michael Beale in October, and he has stated that “nobody expected” his team to be in such a close competition for the championship. Since since, Ibrox has been the home of the League Cup. However, the Rangers were in possession of the primary prize and failed is what will irritate fans if Rodgers guides Celtic to a strong defensive.

“It hasn’t always been flawless,” Rodgers continued. “The truth about football is that perfection isn’t necessary. To reach your desired goals, all you need to do is strive to improve each and every day in every game.