Philippe Clement declares Celtic is NOT his biggest Rangers challenge so far as boss makes case for conquered foe

Boss Philippe Clement reckons that Celtic will not be his biggest test as Rangers boss so far.

The Belgian boss has named the Europa League triumph over Real Betis in Seville as the toughest opponent of his tenure so far as he prepares to make the trip across the Glasgow divide for the first time into the Celtic Park cauldron. There will be no Rangers fans to cheer on their side as they look to close the gap on the Hoops to two points - having played two games less than their city rivals.

And while outsiders may view the came as the highest pressure on the fixture card for Clement since he replaced Michael Beale, the unbeaten manager appears unfazed before facing off against derby day veteran Brendan Rodgers in Glasgow's east end. Asked by Rangers TV if it was the biggest game of his time at the club to this point, Clement responded: "I don't think the biggest, because with all the respect for Celtic our away game against Betis was a bigger challenge.

"That team hadn't lost all season in a home game. They didn't lose against Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid, who are really big teams.

"So, it's going to be a big challenge. It's a pity there can't be Rangers fans but we know a lot of people will support us outside and on the screen and they will all be in our hearts."