Martin O'Neill has defended his position as Celtic manager amid scrutiny over recent defeats.
The 74-year-old, who has faced questions about his tenure and the team's form, rejected the idea that his age should influence his suitability for the role.
O'Neill said: "I understand. I also get the fact they might be asking why the team is being led by a 74-year-old man. When I was 73, we won."
Ahead of the second Old Firm derby of the season on Sunday, O'Neill is confident that Premiership leaders Celtic are not in a weak position despite setbacks. He said: "We're far from rock bottom. We're still in the lead in the league.
"If we can win this weekend and extend the lead, if not, we're still going to be in front going into the international break."
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A victory would place Celtic eight points ahead of Rangers at the top of the table. However, O'Neill does not regard the fixture as a must-win. He said: "No, it's too early in the season.
"It'd be great if we could win because we could extend our lead and go eight clear, and we've won the previous six games. Just occasionally, I might have to defend myself now and again. But I won't.
"The game is big. It's a big game whether it's played in September or March, and we need to be up for the game.
"It'd be nice to win it; it wouldn't be great if we lost."
