Premiership rival to have 'big say' in Rangers and Celtic title glory as dark horse threat can't be dismissed
Former Rangers captain and manager has provided his take on the Scottish Premiership title race
Barry Ferguson admits he is “confident” of Rangers securing a vital Old Firm victory over Celtic at Ibrox on Sunday - but remains convinced the Scottish Premiership title race will go right down to the wire.
The Light Blues, who have won their past seven league games on home soil, hold a two-point cushion over their fierce Glasgow rivals in second spot having played a game more heading into Sunday’s blockbuster clash.
Danny Rohl’s side trail leaders Hearts - who host Aberdeen on Saturday - by four points with 10 matches remaining and are gunning for back-to-back derby wins over Celtic after running 3-1 winners at Parkhead at the beginning of January.
Speaking on BBC Scotland, former Gers skipper and interim boss Ferguson said: “You’ve got to respect your opponent, and respect the manager. He [Martin O’Neill] knows football inside out and I still believe they have really good players.
“But they are coming to our home patch and they want to come and put a dent in Rangers’ title hopes. Rangers have to think that way as well.
“I’m confident in Rangers at home at this moment in time, with the fans behind them. If they produce the standards I expect then it could be a good Sunday for the Rangers supporters.”
Barry Ferguson: Motherwell could have ‘big say’ on title race
Ferguson took charge of his beloved club on a caretaker basis last year following the dismissal of Philippe Clement until the end of the season. After the ill-fated appointment of Russell Martin in the summer, Rangers decided to turn to Danny Rohl to transform their fortunes.
Ferguson confessed he has been hugely impressed by the German’s work since his arrival last October, managing to haul the Govan giants back into the title equation, having trailed Hearts by 13 points at one stage.
Pressed on who he believes will finish top of the table by season’s end, the 48-year-old responded: “I’m not going to be over confident but I’m going to back my team. I believe it’s going to go to the wire.
“And it’s not just about Rangers, Hearts and Celtic, I thoroughly believe Motherwell are in it, and will have a big say.”