Photo via BBC Sport

Celtic seek spark as Rangers aim for further derby joy

Celtic prepare to meet Rangers again in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday, aiming to halt a slide that included a 3-0 Premier Sports Cup quarter-final setback at Ibrox and a 3-1 defeat to Ferencvaros in the Europa League. Despite escalating scrutiny following consecutive losses, the reigning champions can widen their advantage over their rivals to eight points with a victory, whereas a third straight stumble would reduce that margin to merely two points before the international break.

Manager Martin O'Neill insisted his squad remains primed and mentally resilient despite the recent hardships, noting that Celtic will remain atop the standings regardless of the outcome. Addressing concerns about fresh recruits finding their feet in fierce derby environments, O'Neill expressed confidence that the recent clash provided sufficient experience for the players to adjust and respond creatively with the backing of their home supporters.