Rangers legend Ally McCoist sent radio pal Alan Brazil a warning to "be very scared" as derby day looms.
But his Celtic -supporting talkSPORT colleague revealed the message was in stark contrast to a behind-the-scenes admission.
The sides meet on Sunday in an Ibrox clash that could well decide the fate of the Premiership title.
Ange Postecoglou's side are three points clear and a win would have them in pole position to get their campaign over the line while Giovanni van Bronckhorst can wipe the advantage out.
In a dramatic address set to ominous background music, McCoist growled: "Okay Al, mate. It's that time of the week, that time of the month, that time of the year again, pal.
"The difference is, my son, this game is at Ibrox. The home of the champions.
"I accept we weren't at our best when we played at your place, however, you're travelling across the city to the home of the champions.
"Be scared, Al. Be very, very scared."
But Brazil was unmoved as he cut the brass band and said: "Do you know something, it's amazing how he changes in 24 hours. I was sitting having a glass with him yesterday.
"He's like that, 'we're playing rubbish at the moment, I fancy Celtic to beat us'.
"How can he come on, live on air and say that?
"My hope is, nothing to lose, don't sit back, go for it like they did right from the whistle at Parkhead. Went for Rangers' throats, I would do it again.
"Rangers are not playing that great. In Europe, yeah, but in the SPL, no.
"So Celtic have got to go for it."
