Callum McGregor: Celtic aiming for another fast start at Ibrox in derby

Callum McGregor says Celtic are aiming for another good start at Ibrox as they look to turn a partisan Ibrox atmosphere in their favour.

There will only be Rangers fans inside the stadium for the Old Firm game on Thursday with the fixture yet-again being played with no away support present.

The Hoops scored an early goal the last time they played at the home of their rivals back in April when Daizen Maeda struck within the first minute in a game that ended 3-3.

And the Celtic captain is hoping for a similar fast start again as they look to tighten their grip on the Premiership title.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, McGregor said: “It’s always important for us to start the game fast, no matter where we are playing, but in terms of not having any supporters there that makes it even more important to start the game well and turn the atmosphere in our favour.

“We always try to do that anyway but especially in a game like this.”

The midfielder had a rare shot on the bench at the weekend as he was rested for Celtic’s 4-0 win over St Johnstone that increased their lead at the top of the table to 14 points.

He insists it was good to see the side play so well in his absence and knows they can be confident with whatever starting eleven the manager decides on such is the strength of the squad.

McGregor, who scored the last time Celtic played Rangers, said: “It’s always good to see the guys who start do well and it was another good performance and another strong result, so we are in a really good place and know whoever the manager decides to pick will give their maximum.

“We are in a really good space and everyone is looking forward to the next game.”