Photo via BBC Sport

Ferguson-esque Neil 'ran the show' for Rangers

Dan Neil delivered a standout display in his debut Old Firm derby, netting two contrasting goals to inspire Rangers to a well-earned triumph. Handed the captain's armband while Lawrence Shankland remained sidelined, the midfielder—who signed a three-year contract at Ibrox back in July and quickly entered Derek McInnes' leadership core—controlled the center of the pitch beside Nicolas Raskin and inverted left-back James Penrice.

Neil frequently outmatched Celtic adversaries Callum McGregor and Benjamin Nygren, even executing a turn that left the opposing skipper behind, which encapsulated his team's match-long supremacy.

Following the final whistle, Neil credited McInnes' pre-game speech and tactical preparation for fostering an energetic, unified approach in front of the home support. The manager echoed those sentiments, commending the midfield trio's discipline in exploiting space outside the penalty area and praising the squad's emerging resilience after recent hardships.

The rivals are scheduled to square off once more next Sunday in the Scottish Premiership at Celtic Park, following a midweek Europa League engagement where Celtic will entertain Ferencvaros.