It’s time for Rangers and Big Phil to beat Celtic | OneFootball

So it’s officially Old Firm week, and Ibrox Noise begins our coverage of what could already be a pivotal match this season.

Rangers supporters have a little speck more hope league-wise now, that while the draw at Hearts was a weak stumble to begin the season, overall 8 goals scored while just the one own goal in three matches conceded does suggest a slight uplift in Rangers’ fortunes.

While some will have an eye on events in Paisley Sunday, the result is probably immaterial – the result next weekend is undoubtedly the one that matters.

It’s not a title decider by any means, it will only be the fourth fixture of the season, but it’s at the most honest time for Rangers.

With a little momentum now secured but a squad that is probably a considerable level beneath where it needs to be, a result in the east end of Glasgow would be a mammoth attainment for Clement given his dire record v Celtic and a transfer window that has so far been fairly unimpressive.

We still don’t trust the man against Celtic, he has fallen short four times already, managing just one draw at Ibrox.

That said he is putting something of a picture into Rangers’ shape, with a definite formation and style starting to eke through. It’s some way from overall success and function, but it might be beginning to yield something.

But the best test for it is always Celtic.

This is always how Rangers managers are judged, and Clement is no different.

He’s been a fail against this side, and next weekend is his chance to put it (partially) right and finally get a Rangers win at Parkhead.

Celtic have started the season pretty smoothly, so a stumble in Paisley would be helpful, but a bigger one next weekend would be best.

Will Clement get this one right and nail it at last?

We shall see.