Celtic hero not buying Clement theory after Rangers 'disrespect' claim as Rodgers told he's bang on

Beaming Charlie Mulgrew admits he's engrossed in the booming soundbites emanating from Celtic and Rangers ahead of Saturday's title blockbuster at Parkhead – but is convinced Philippe Clement remains in control.

Brendan Rodgers was emboldened in the wake of his side's dominant 3-0 win over Hearts and vowed to have "bit of fun" in the biggest game of the season. The Irishman didn't address Rangers directly but Clement believed his city rival was lacking respect over his vow.

Some onlookers queried the Belgian's response – with Chris Sutton noting Clement did the same as his counterpart by also vowing to have fun – but Mulgrew believes the Rangers boss was well within his rights to respond. Speaking to Sky Sports, Mulgrew said: "I'm sure he just wanted to have that pop back to show he is backing his players. I am sure he will be right back to business in getting his team ready for the game. I am sure that is his main focus, he is an experienced manager."

And Mulgrew believes the fighting talk only adds to the occasion as Celtic stand one victory away from an all-but guaranteed 12th Premiership title in 13 seasons. The former Scotland star added: "I love it, I think it's brilliant. It adds to the occasion. The fans love it and both sets of fans are relishing it.

"Rangers fans I can imagine are delighted with the response from Clement. It's brilliant from Brendan Rodgers putting that out there. I think it all adds to it, it's a bit of fun, it's what this occasion brings. It gets everybody up for it, the fans are looking forward to it. There is a lot of anxiety amongst the players, I would imagine, and staff.

"But you have got to have fun. Brendan Rodgers is right, you have got to go out and enjoy it, because that's what