Celtic and Rangers prepare for a crucial clash in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday, following a disappointing week for the champions. Celtic suffered a 3-0 defeat to Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-finals, coupled with a 3-1 loss to Ferencvaros in their opening Europa League match.

With pressure mounting on Martin O'Neill's squad, Celtic has a chance to extend their lead over their rivals by eight points. However, a third consecutive loss would see Rangers close the gap to just two points.

O'Neill expressed confidence in his team's preparation:

We're ready to go, we really are. It was a difficult game last Sunday and difficult last night, but we're ready to go.

He acknowledged the need for improvement, stating:

We've got to be a bit more inventive but the crowd will be up for this. The players are capable of turning it around.

Questions have arisen regarding the impact of recent signings, as several new players struggled to adapt in high-pressure situations. O'Neill noted:

It will probably take a little bit more time, but I think anybody who experienced last Sunday should know what it's all about.

As both teams gear up for this pivotal encounter, the stakes have never been higher.