Aiden McGeady predicts 'massive' Celtic role for one star as Rangers told onus is on them at Parkhead
Former Celtic ace Aiden McGeady reckons the Old Firm clash is a must not lose for his old team.
However, he insists there is no margin for error for Rangers as they have to win to keep their title hopes alive. The former Hoops winger admits if Brendan Rodgers’ side avoid defeat to their city rivals then they will be within touching distance of the title. And if they can pick up the three points then the race for the Premiership crown will be over, as Celtic will be six points clear with just two games remaining and a far superior goal difference.
Rangers need to win to move level on points with Celtic and set up a thrilling shoot-out in the final two games of the campaign. However, McGeady believes defending champions Celtic’s title winning experience will be key to them getting over the line as they have rediscovered their form at the crucial time. McGeady said: “Celtic this season has been a bit of a rollercoaster of a season but I think recently Celtic have turned their form around.
“A lot of questions were being asked about the style of play, the manager, the formation but I think you saw in that last Rangers game the momentum shifting towards Celtic in this title race. Come the game on Saturday for Celtic it’s a must not lose game but for Rangers it’s a must win.
“Because if Celtic win it’s a massive uphill task, two games left with six points in it and the goal difference you’re effectively talking seven points. It’s a massive occasion. Celtic have been in this situation before on a number of occasions, this squad in particular, the manager has but for Rangers it’s new to a lot of the players.
“So the onus is on Rangers to go there and try to get the win. Celtic will be calm and collected about it, they’ve been in this situation before many times over the years. So I think it’s got all the making of a fantastic game.”
Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi has bagged seven goals in 12 games against Rangers and McGeady expects the Japanese international to have a major say. McGeady, speaking to the Scottish Football podcast, added: “Kyogo’s going to have a massive role in the game. I’d be very surprised come full-time on Saturday if he’s not scored or had chances. Kyogo has been a massive thorn in Rangers' side since he signed.
“He’s one of those players who sometimes you don’t appreciate how good he is when he’s not getting involved massively in the build up of the play but he can just do something out of nothing and that’s what the best strikers do. Earlier on in the season there was a lot of talk of does he fit into the new style of play, as opposed to Ange Portecoglou’s side, but he’s still one of those players you can never take out of the team, just for what he does on a week to week basis.
“There’s a reason the strikers are paid the most money and are the most sought after players. And I’d be very surprised if we’re not discussing the impact Kyogo’s had on the game.”