Brian Laudrup was no stranger to producing when it mattered for Rangers and gave fans of the Light Blues one or two memorable moments in Old Firm derbies.
Writing in his Daily Mail column, and reported by The Daily Record, the Great Dane believes that the success of Steven Gerrard’s side could largely depend on the outcome of one battle.
So what has Laudrup said?
When looking ahead to Saturday’s fixture, he picked out the role that Alfredo Morelos – who looked like he was on his way at one point – could play in breaking down Celtic’s defence:
“Alfredo Morelos v Shane Duffy is one that promises to be box-office material. A physical match-up taken to the limit. We all know his temper is an aspect he sometimes struggles to control, although we haven’t seen as much of that this season.
“If Morelos can drop deep and drag him out of position, there could be space to exploit in behind Celtic’s back three. Ryan Kent has already shown he can do that.
“Scott Arfield is another whose late runs are very difficult to track. These are weapons that could hurt Celtic if their defenders are not at the very top of their concentration.
“Of course, the fact Morelos has never scored in an Old Firm match is part of the narrative here. It must be incredibly annoying in his mind, but I think the Rangers management team will try everything in their power to make him focus on his performance first.”
So is Laudrup correct?
El Bufalo might be without an Old Firm goal in his sizeable Rangers collection but this doesn’t paint the full picture of his performances against Celtic and Laudrup is right, he could be the key to victory in what would be an early championship marker.
Will Morelos break his Old Firm duck on Saturday?
Yes
No
Morelos has previously caused all sorts of problems against their defence and given the subtle tactical tweak to his new role – dropping deeper to create space behind – Ryan Kent, as Laudrup says, could have a field day.
The Colombian international has shown greater maturity this season and he is now going to be at Ibrox until at least January, what he would give to get a goal against Celtic, especially if it is a winning one.