Former Celtic star explains why Rangers Scottish Cup draw was good for Parkhead club

Alan Stubbs reckons Celtic drawing Rangers in the next round of the Scottish Cup was a positive for the club.

Celtic TV pundit Alan Stubbs. Picture: SNS

The former Parkhead favourite feels the match at Ibrox next weekend gives John Kennedy’s men the chance to build on their previous two performances against Steven Gerrard’s side, while also making a success of what’s been a grim season for those of a green-and-white persuasion in Glasgow.

Rangers have already wrapped up the league title, denying Celtic the chance at ten-in-a-row in dominating fashion, and now have their eyes on a league and cup double.

Stubbs said on Celtic TV: “You're always looking at the draw and whomever is first out you’re thinking, ‘is it Rangers?’

“It’s better if you knock them out early. I think it was a good draw all round because it’s a great chance for Celtic to get some kudos back because Rangers have had it over them all season.

“In the Christmas game and the last Old Firm game, I think Celtic were the better team but didn’t get the result.

“I think they go into this Scottish Cup and they know it’s the last bit of comfort they need to try and get.”

Stubbs also agreed with former team-mate Jackie McNamara, also on the Celtic TV panel, that they’d rather get Rangers at the fourth round than face them in the final.

Next weekend’s match will be the first time the two rivals have faced each other in the Scottish Cup since a 4-0 win for Celtic in the 2018 semi-final.

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