GRAEME SOUNESS insists the Old Firm dugout war of words will mean NOTHING when Saturday’s title crunch kicks off.
Celtic gaffer Brendan Rodgers promised to “have fun” in the derby clash, with a win virtually guaranteeing his Hoops three in a row.
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Rangers boss Philippe Clement accused Rodgers of showing disrespect and claimed it’s “something I would never say about an opponent”.
But Gers legend Souey, 71, says he’d never have been drawn into the pre-match mind games — and says strength of character will be vital at Parkhead.
Souness, the PFA Scotland special merit award winner for 2024, said: “If you need motivation to play in an Old Firm game then there’s something wrong with you. It’s the biggest derby I’ve ever played in.
You have the huge football rivalry between the two biggest clubs in the country.
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“We know there is the unsavoury part to it, of course, but there’s no denying the magnitude of the game.
“It takes character to win these games. That’s nothing new.
“It’s about being motivated to the point where you are keeping your concentration levels and not getting carried away and losing your focus.”
Rodgers spoke after Celtic’s 3-0 win over Hearts on Saturday, which briefly opened up a six-point gap at the top of the Premiership.
Clement responded after Gers’ 4-1 victory at home to Kilmarnock on Sunday, which closed the gap back to three points.
Celts could go six clear with just two games to play with a win this Saturday lunchtime — but Gers could wipe out their advantage.
On the pre-match spat, Souness added: “It’s not a road I went down.
“If anyone said anything mental it meant nothing. That was just the way I was educated.
“We do our job, we turn up and do it to the best of our ability.”
Souness is hoping his old side can emerge victorious this weekend and he believes Clement has what it takes to lead the Light Blues to a huge three points.
He said: “I think he’s handled himself brilliantly in his short time at Rangers.
“He’s been to Parkhead already so he knows the challenges that are in front of him.
“I thought they were a bit unlucky in the last game there.
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“They were down to ten men for a long time yet could have got something from the game.
“But this is not just about this weekend. It’s about getting over the line in the league — and this is a big step towards it.”
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