Chris Sutton sees a simple equation for Rangers as Celtic icon relishes the battle of the bottle

Celtic hero Chris Sutton reckons the seismic Old Firm showdown is a battle of bottle.

The former Celtic striker says an inability to handle the enormity of the occasion will see some crumble. Sutton is convinced being nerveless is priceless as Brendan Rodgers’ team aim to deliver a fatal blow to the title hopes of their rivals. The Record Sport columnist says Philippe Clement’s side simply have to win and explained: “It’s huge, it’s immense and, as much as ability, it is going to come down to who can handle it. How you react and how you perform under such severe scrutiny is what separates in this match. I’ve seen players excel, I’ve seen others fold. It’s not easy, it’s not for everyone, but if you can’t cope, you will go under.”

Sutton feels Celtic’s added experience will help in that regard, but could be offset by a nothing-to-lose outlook from Rangers. He said: “Brendan Rodgers’ team have had the best of it in the Old Firm games this season and, when it comes to winning titles and winning these games overall, they have far more in the ranks.

“In that respect, Celtic look strong. But the equation is simple for Rangers. They need to win. A draw is no good. With that in mind, it could work in their favour. Remove any shackles. We know how Rangers are going to play, they will be direct, they will try to get at Celtic and test them.”

Clement responded strongly to a comment from Rodgers last weekend about having fun, but Sutton isn’t reading into so-called mind games. He said: “Brendan might have gotten under big Phil’s skin a bit, but, really and truly, it’s irrelevant. I’ve never seen a comment win a game.”

Sutton takes a similar view when it comes to the attendance at Celtic Park, which will be made up exclusively of