Ange Postecoglou doesn't 'understand' where Michael Beale is coming from when he talks about potential pressure on the referee in the Old Firm derby.
The Celtic boss insists his focus lies solely on the action as the Hoops look to retain their unbeaten run against their rivals and deal a hammer blow to Rangers' hopes of a pathway back to the title in the process. Postecoglou's men, who haven't lost since September, can go twelve clear with a win in the huge derby clash having already secured the Viaplay Cup and with one eye on the Scottish Cup semi-final.
Beale suggested this week that, due to the lockout of away fans confirmed for the remainder of the league Old Firm derbies this season, referee Kevin Clancy and officials in general are under a 'huge amount of pressure'. But Postecoglou insists he doesn't worry about that factor.
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When asked where he stood on the claims, he said: "I don't stand on that [he laughed]. I don't know - does that mean 700 fans would? I don't understand.
"I don't worry about that stuff. What is important tomorrow is we perform well in front of our supporters and it will be a great atmosphere."
He added: “We’re playing against the team that’s closest to us so if we win the game, it furthers that distance between us.
"Games are running out so it could have a major impact in terms of the end of the season but ultimately nothing gets decided this weekend.
“The players understand that. They’re really good at focusing on what’s before us right now and what’s before us is we’re playing a team that’s second in the table, closest to us, and we have an opportunity to extend our lead at the top.
“Irrespective of what the outcome is, we’ve still got to front up the following week and make sure we perform well again.”
Beale said on the ref potential impact this week: “It impacts it because it’s very hostile when you go.
"I think the referees are under a huge amount of pressure. Even having just a few fans is better than none, I would say. You’d always rather some fans, even if it was only a small amount.
“I just think it adds to the flavour of the game and, again, the pressure it puts on the referee if you have a large crowd in favour of one team.”
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