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Celtic vs Rangers: John Hartson gives verdict after Chris Sutton brands claim EMBARRASSING
CELTIC host Rangers on Sunday in the first Old Firm clash of the season, with former Hoops striker John Hartson describing the fixture as the “biggest derby in world football”.
John Hartson: Celtic v Rangers derby is the ‘biggest rivalry’
Hartson was speaking on Robbie Savage’s show on BT Sport during which a panel of guests, including Karen Carney, Steve Sidwell and Chris Sutton, were asked which is the biggest rivalry in British football.
Carney, a former England international, said the Manchester derby between City and United was the biggest.
This immediately was challenged by Sutton, who scoffed at Carney’s choice.
The former Blackburn Rovers and Celtic forward called her suggestion “embarrassing”.
The biggest derby in world football
"Come on it's not bigger than Celtic - Rangers,” said Sutton.
“That’s embarrassing."
When Hartson was asked by Savage for his thoughts, the former Celtic and Arsenal striker was resolute in his response.
“Celtic - Rangers without a shadow of a doubt,” Hartson said.
Savage challenged both Hartson and Sutton, that there choices were made as a result of both of them playing for Celtic.
But Hartson was having none of it.
“No not at all, ask [Graeme] Souness ask [Paul] Gascoigne,” Hartson said.
“Thats the biggest game in the world.
“The biggest derby in world football.
Brendan Rodgers: Old Firm more intense than Merseyside derby
"Ask Souness who’s won three European Cups, he’ll tell you Celtic - Rangers."
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers will face Rangers boss Steven Gerrard for the first time this season on Sunday.
Rangers have had a busy summer with a host of new signings joining the club following Gerrard’s appointment as manager.
However, it has been nine matches since the Ibrox club have beaten Celtic in the league, so it will prove a difficult test for the boy from Merseyside.