Rodgers Analyzes Ferguson's Impact on Rangers Ahead of Crucial Glasgow Derby

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has shared his insights on Rangers' performance under interim head coach Barry Ferguson, ahead of the highly anticipated Glasgow derby. Rodgers, who has been closely monitoring Rangers' recent matches, noted that he sees "a lot of the same traits" in the team despite Ferguson's tactical adjustments.

Tactical Shifts and Consistency

Rodgers highlighted that while Ferguson has made some tactical changes, such as switching to a 5-4-1 formation during their Europa League clash with Fenerbahce, the overall performance of the team has remained inconsistent. "I don't see great change," Rodgers remarked. "There are some very good performances, but also some inconsistencies."

The Importance of the Glasgow Derby

The upcoming match is crucial for both teams, especially for Celtic, who are looking to reclaim their dominance after a 3-0 defeat to Rangers in January. Rodgers emphasized the significance of the derby, stating, "This is Celtic-Rangers, and it's not a game you want to lose, no matter how far in front you are." Currently, Celtic leads the Scottish Premiership by 16 points, but Rodgers is well aware that derby matches can be unpredictable.

Injury Concerns and Team Morale

Midfielder Callum McGregor is a potential doubt for the match due to an injury, but Rodgers is prepared to wait until the last moment to make a decision on his captain's availability. Despite the injury concerns, Rodgers is confident in his team's hunger and determination to perform well. "We're very hungry to put that right in this game," he said, referring to their previous loss.

Ferguson's Influence and Future

Rodgers also spoke about Ferguson's connection with the Rangers supporters and his history with the club. "He was a fantastic player for them," Rodgers said, acknowledging Ferguson's legacy. However, he believes that any significant changes under Ferguson's leadership will need more time to be fully assessed. "Whether he was in for four games or 40 games, a Celtic-Rangers game will always be a tough game," Rodgers added.

Looking Ahead

As the derby approaches, both teams are preparing for what promises to be an intense and closely contested match. Rodgers is focused on ensuring that his team is ready to face the challenges posed by Rangers, while also maintaining their lead in the league. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for the title race, making it a must-watch for football fans.