Mark Warburton says Rangers don't fear Celtic ahead of derby
Friday 15 April 2016 18:35, UK
Mark Warburton insists Rangers have no fear, going into their Old Firm Scottish Cup semi-final with Celtic on Sunday.
The Ibrox side were well beaten in the last four of last season's League Cup by their Glasgow rivals but have made great strides under their English manager since then.
Warburton's opposite number Ronny Deila admits the gap between the clubs has narrowed and statistics suggest Rangers are likely to be more competitive than they were previously.
Having won all bar nine of their 44 fixtures so far in 2015/16, the Championship winners have momentum going into their biggest match of the campaign yet.
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Warburton told Sky Sports News HQ: "It's one of the biggest games in world football in terms of derbies so the players are aware of the significance and importance of the game.
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"It's a Scottish Cup semi-final and they want to win. The atmosphere will be electric, I'm sure, but they're pros and these are the type of games you work hard to play in. There's no worry about that.
"They're in good shape, they've prepared really well and their performances this season have been first class.
"Celtic are the clear favourites. They're top of the Premiership so of course they are. We've just won the Scottish Championship and we respect that. We're not foolish in that respect.
"But we're a very good team and we've played well all season. We're looking forward to it. We don't fear anyone. We've demonstrated a level of consistency all season."
The derby will be the biggest match of Warburton's managerial career and he goes into it in upbeat mood.
He added: "It's a huge game and it's a privilege to be involved in it so absolutely. It's the same for the players, myself, David (Weir), Jim (Stewart) and all the staff.
"You have to enjoy these occasions. Learn from them, be better for them hopefully but, absolutely, look forward to them."
Don't miss Rangers v Celtic in the Scottish Cup, live on Sky Sports 2 HD from 11am on Sunday.
