The derby clash is the first of the season and is sure to be an entertaining one

It’s not often that on derby week, the Old Firm build-up becomes a sideshow. That’s because all the chat has been about who Celtic and Rangers were going to snap up ahead of deadline day.

It was a frantic end to the window as Brendan Rodgers bolstered his squad with three new signings, while Philippe Clement added two faces to his ranks. Whether any of them will be handed a baptism of fire on Sunday is another thing. But what is guaranteed is that the nerves and excitement will officially kick in for both sides of the divide as the bitter rivals prepare to lock horns for the first time this season.

Ryan McDonald

Anything can happen on derby day but even the most optimistic Rangers fans must be dreading Sunday’s trip to Parkhead. The gulf in quality between the two sides is enormous and some Celtic supporters will be expecting a cricket scoreline. That won’t be the case.

Philippe Clement has yet to get the better of derby veteran Brendan Rodgers but all four encounters have been tight, with only one goal separating them. The way Celtic are playing, Callum McGregor and Co. should make it a little more comfortable this time around, although the visitors will nick a goal.

Prediction: Celtic 3-1 Rangers

Mark Hendry

It’s hard to see past Celtic for this one given how the two sides’ seasons have started. The Hoops have been dominant in their opening fixtures and have just splurged on their record signing of Arne Engels to add to their already commanding squad.

Rangers, meanwhile, have stuttered at times albeit they blew Ross County away last weekend. A lack of away fans will always have a bearing on the fixture, too, no matter what anyone says and with Celtic’s support already in party mode in this week’s build-up, I’d be surprised if they relented.

It’ll be very difficult for Gers to keep up if Brendan Rodgers’ side sprint out the traps as they so often do. If the visitors are to stand any chance, they have to score early, silence Parkhead and frustrate. Something tells me they won’t.

Prediction: Celtic 3-0 Rangers

Blair Meikle

Celtic have plenty of strolls so far this season and this will be no different even though it is a derby. Rangers couldn’t beat their rivals last season and the gap between the two is looking even bigger this campaign. Obviously, there is no Matt O’Riley now but I don’t expect that to disrupt the Hoops too much. There’s potential for them to score a few but I could see them scoring a quick couple and killing the game.

Prediction: Celtic 2-0 Rangers