Michael Beale insists his side won't be thinking about the last time Rangers went to Celtic Park and even feels the Light Blues are different from January's derby.
The Rangers boss will be hoping its third time lucky against Ange Postecoglou's men after the 2-2 draw in the new year was followed up by his first loss in post in the Viaplay Cup final. Beale will get the chance for revenge on Saturday as they aim to cut the gap back from nine points over Celtic. That clash comes before a showpiece Scottish Cup semi-final at the end of the month.
And the Englishman believes September's 4-0 hammering cannot come in to the equation due to the landscape changing, while he noted he feels it is a different Rangers even from his full managerial debut in the fixture in January. Midfielder Nicolas Raskin looks set to start his first Old Firm at Parkhead in a major boost, and Beale admits he has brought an extra quality.
READ MORE: Ally McCoist felt 'threatened' in Celtic Park moment as Rangers hero's 'worst-ever' abuse revealed
When asked if previous heavy losses play a part, he said: "No, I don't think so. It's a different manager, some different players. We come into this game in a rich vein of form.
"We come in on the back of 10 away wins. It's a game we've been looking forward to. Both Old Firm games since I've come back in we've started slow.
"We need to start well and carry a big threat going forwards. We will pick a team to win the game. We are a possession-based team. It is important we get our attacking players on the ball and go show our quality, we have to execute our big moments.
"These games are often won in big moments, our key players have to step up tomorrow. We are definitely a different team from my first Old Firm match back.
"Todd (Cantwell) and Nico (Raskin) have brought nice energy into the group and have the quality to bring to the squad. The league form has been strong but it is important we continue to show that."
On Raskin, he added: “Raskin is fit and has trained all week. He has got three or four sessions behind him so there is no issues with Nico”.
READ NEXT:
- John Bennett new Rangers chairman as Douglas Park steps down amid relentless success pursuit mantra
- Brian Laudrup on the Rangers psychological blow Michael Beale must land on Celtic
- Rangers told how to hurt Celtic as Hoops hero offers a blueprint for success in derby
- Allan McGregor new Rangers deal decision laid bare as veteran keeper reveals 3 key factors
