I was only there a short period of time.
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Rodgers is in the process of rebuilding his reputation having been sacked by Liverpool past year and he will know that a win against their most bitter rivals this weekend will be a great way to endear himself to the Celtic faithful.
Rangers manager Mark Warburton did not try to hide his disappointment.
Kenny Miller insists he had unwavering confidence that Rangers would beat Celtic at Hampden last season – and he retains full belief in their potential as a squad ahead of the latest derby.
Rangers won the Championship last season at a canter, playing an expansive and attacking game, something they’d been missing throughout their journey through the Scottish lower leagues.
Last season, the Gers were written off and given no chance at Hampden.
“Experience tells me that the teams who play with that coolness and composure can come through and play well as it’s important to perform well”. Others live for such games and grab it by the horns, becoming instant legends.
The former Fulham youngster, who started in the absence of the injured Leigh Griffiths, opened the scoring in the 33rd minute at Celtic Park on Saturday and added another before the break.
Meanwhile, Rangers welcome back Martyn Waghorn and Josh Windass following injuries and could be called upon by Warburton. Senderos then picked up a second yellow card 15 minutes from time to complete a miserable day for the Swiss worldwide.
The managers have their say……..
“Listen, I respect it is a big game”, said Rodgers. “It is about us and trying to find that performance over 90 minutes”. More importantly, the way the team is playing, the energy and ambition of the team has given the supporters something to be proud of so far and the atmosphere will be incredible.
“Every derby is different. I am really looking forward to it”.
Warburton could obviously see where some of Rangers’ problems were making an uncharacteristic half-time change, replacing the ineffective Kranjcar with Andy Halliday, and the change looked to have re-invigorated the light blues.
Whichever side you were cheering for in the Old Firm derby though, remember it’s just football – right?
“We know it’s an important game but we’ve had three tough games before this as well”.
“You listened to what we asked and behaved accordingly which has helped our officers ensure the safety of everyone attending the venue”.
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“We did that second half, the first 12 to 15 minutes I thought we picked up the second ball, looked very positive, looked to move the ball quickly”.
