Rangers tipped to match Celtic as ‘important’ Ryan Kent claim issued – McLeish
Alex McLeish has tipped Rangers to copy Celtic by making a breakneck start to Sunday’s derby clash at Ibrox.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Gers boss claimed the likes of Ryan Kent would be “very important” in terms of keeping a high tempo and putting pressure on the Hoops’ defence.
Celtic ran out 3-0 winners in February’s meeting between the Glasgow giants, with Reo Hatate scoring twice.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Giovanni van Bronckhorst was furious by his side’s “unbelievable” first-half display at Parkhead.
McLeish suggested the Rangers boss would look to emulate Celtic’s fast start and try keep the visitors under constant pressure on Sunday.
“I just feel that Rangers have to do what Celtic did to them in the last game,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“That was to come out the traps, Celtic were really aggressive in the opening minutes and Rangers started slowly. They can’t afford to do that on their home ground.
“I would think that they would be thinking along those lines, that they have to try and force Celtic back the way. Try create and capitalise on any defensive aberrations at all.
“I think it’s all about the tempo of the game. It’s not about launching the ball up and getting on top of them. It’s about passing the ball quickly and get getting it forward quickly.
“Not going side to side, get it forward and make the most out of space. Try to eliminate any covering in the defence.
“For one-on-one situations as well, guys like Ryan Kent, he’s looked in really good form over the last few weeks. He will be a very important player for Rangers as well.”
In other news, Rangers TV pundit makes “100%” Ibrox star fitness claim ahead of Celtic showdown.