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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Matthew Fulton

Michael Beale to 'surprise' Celtic as Rangers urged to rectify 'not up to scratch' cup final defeat

Michael Beale could surprise a few with his team selection on Saturday as his Rangers side face champions Celtic.

The Englishman has been relatively rigid in his choices since arriving as boss and seems to have formed a cohesive unit at Ibrox, bolstered by the acquisitions of Todd Cantwell and Nicolas Raskin on top of the varied success of the signings of Gio Van Bronckhorst. But Beale must pick a side tasked with inflicting defeat on Ange Postecoglou's rampant league leaders, who haven't suffered defeat since September.

Former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson believes Beale will spring a surprise or two with personnel changes when they travel to Celtic Park with no away fans present. The pundit also insists the Viaplay Cup final defeat to Celtic - Beale's only loss to date - wasn't 'up to scratch' for his liking and a big turnaround is required this weekend.

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He told Go Radio: "It’s the same as when I played, I’m always nervous and I had to feel that way leading up to this game. I still feel that way, even though I'm retired now a long time.

“Rangers know how important this is on Saturday. The last performance at Hampden wasn’t up to scratch and I think Michael Beale knows that. Listen, I think he’s done a great job since he’s come in.

"There’s no doubt he’s improved them. It was a good January with two quality players coming in as well.

"I’m looking forward to it because I think he's going to do something a bit different and maybe surprise a few people with the personnel that’s going to be in the starting XI.”

READ NEXT:

- Chris Sutton insists Rangers fear Celtic star as he reveals title setbacks Ange Postecoglou can 'afford'

- 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

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