Ally McCoist turns Celtic Grinch as Rangers derby 'battering' on his wish list with Jeff Stelling left in a chuckle

Ally McCoist hopes all Celtic fans have a wonderful Christmas, but wants Rangers to 'batter' their rivals in New Year.

The Ibrox hero turned in to a modern day version of the Grinch as he wants the agony to pile on even more for Brendan Rodgers come the unrelenting festive period in the Scottish Premiership. The Hoops have suffered a weekend of misfortune after dropping points in the title race again, losing to Hearts on Saturday, before watching their rivals scoop the Viaplay Cup on Sunday against Aberdeen.

Philippe Clement's men appear to be steaming towards the December 30 showdown at Celtic Park in which the scenario of Rangers going top of the summit has left Rodgers' champions needing the derby bragging rights. And McCoist is basking in the Christmas cheer around Ibrox, but stopped short of wanting to ruin the Yuletide for Parkhead fanatics.

Yet the exciting pundit insists there should be no respite come the New Year, after co-host Jeff Stelling put him on the spot on whether he would wish Celtic fans a happy festive period.

Stelling said on Talksport: "I imagine you would have a better message for kids out there at Christmas who are Celtic fans Ally? McCoist responded: "I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. But I hope we batter you in the New Year."