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Glasgow Live
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Alan Galindo

James Tavernier in 'aggressive' Rangers vs Celtic message as he touches on 'massive role' fans play

James Tavernier has called on Rangers to be 'aggressive' from the off against Celtic.

The Light Blues welcome Ange Postecoglou's men to Ibrox for the second Old Firm derby of the season and a first for Michael Beale as manager. The visitors hold a nine point advantage at the top of the Premiership ahead of kick-off and can take a huge stride in the race for the title with a win which would extend the gap to 12.

However, Tavernier and Co will be out to make sure the points remain in Govan and cut that gap to just six points with plenty of football still to be played. The Rangers skipper admits it's a 'dream come true' to be involved in such a high profile game and he will be doing everything in his power to get that all important win. Speaking to the media ahead of facing Celtic, he said: "We have to be aggressive from the first whistle in every game we play.

READ MORE: Neil Lennon gives Rangers v Celtic score prediction and difference between his side and current crop

"I love these occasions, it is a dream come true to be involved in and I will do everything possible to get the result.

"We want to get the result we need at home. It's a team we know will be aggressive and we look forward to the challenge.

"We are going out there to get the three points. The games can be manic and it is important we are controlled from the start.

"The fans play a massive role, but it is up to us as players to set the tone around the stadium from the start. The fans will always follow us, it is down to us to make a great game of it."

He added: "We have got the results since the gaffer arrived, and we know we can improve our performances.

"Getting the squad all up to speed is giving us depth and we are in a good place.

"We have been showing signs in games and we now need to show this throughout games.

"We have been enjoying training and working hard with the gaffer."

Adam Devine has burst onto the scene under Beale and impressed in his run of games post-World Cup shutdown.

He dropped out after the return of Borna Barisic but Tavernier was full of praise for the youngster and urged him to keep pushing on now.

He said: "Adam [Devine] has really impressed, he has been working hard and he now has to keep pushing and the squad will all demand more.

"He has been a credit to himself, his family and the club."

READ NEXT:

- Malik Tillman in Rangers 'best team' claim as he brands Celtic game 'biggest of year' and demands win

- Neil Lennon gives Rangers v Celtic score prediction and difference between his side and current crop

- Amad Diallo continues post Rangers form as Celtic favourite Patrick Roberts nets in Sunderland win

- Shaun Maloney in Rangers Celtic VAR theory as former Hoops star reveals one scenario that wouldn't surprise him

- Ange Postecoglou fires Celtic 'can always get better' message ahead of Rangers Old Firm derby

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