Rangers snub showed 'lack of class' and Celtic 'should be bigger than that' says former star

Former Celtic centre-back Gary Caldwell believes his old side should show themselves to be “bigger” than rivals Rangers and give the newly-crowned Scottish Premiership champions a guard of honour this Sunday.

Celtic receiving a guard of honour from Partick Thistle after winning the title in 2017. Picture: SNS

The Parkhead side host their Old Firm foes in what will be the first league match for both teams since Celtic’s draw at Dundee United handed Steven Gerrard’s men the title, officially ending their ten-in-a-row hopes, with six games to play.

Ever since there has been a debate as to whether the Celtic players should give their title-winning opponents a guard of honour as they enter the field before kick-off.

The Ibrox club decided against doing likewise in Gerrard’s first season when Neil Lennon’s side visited Govan after beating them to the championship.

Rangers giving Hearts a guard of honour after the Tynecastle side won the Championship title in 2015. Picture: SNS

Caldwell, however, doesn’t believe that’s the right thing to do. He also reckons it could act as motivation for the Celtic players to ensure there isn’t a repeat at the end of next season.

He told Sky Sports: "In my opinion they should. I think a lot of the supporters will disagree with that, but I think Rangers haven't done it in the past and I think that shows a lack of class.

"I think Celtic should be bigger than that and have the humility to respect Rangers and what they have achieved this season, and also use that feeling.

"No player wants to do it, but use that feeling for next season and the motivation to win the league title back. I think they should show Rangers the respect and do it on Sunday."

Message from the editor

Get a year of unlimited access to all The Scotsman's sport coverage without the need for a full subscription. Expert analysis of the biggest games, exclusive interviews, live blogs, transfer news and 70 per cent fewer ads on Scotsman.com - all for less than £1 a week. Subscribe to us today