Ronny Deila admits that Celtic are favourites to beat Rangers in their Scottish League Cup semi-final clash on Sunday, but cautioned his side that their rivals are capable of springing a shock.

The Bhoys are set to lock horns with their fierce rivals for the first time since 2012. The occasion will also be Deila's first taste of the intensity of an Old Firm game.




The stakes are high, with a spot in the League Cup final and the chance to win the first piece of silverware of the season on offer.

 


Deila concedes that his side start the semi-final tie as favourites, but believes Rangers will pose a threat to his men.

"I’m looking forward to the game and the atmosphere, but we have to focus on winning", he explained at a press conference at Hampden Park.

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"I won’t say we are strong favourites, but we are favourites – that's the same for most games.

"They have beaten teams in the top division before the semi-final and it’s one game

"Nothing is straight forward. It will be a tough game, but I know when we are on top we have a good chance to win."

And Deila wants his Celtic side to treat Rangers with respect, being fully aware that surprise results can happen in cup competitions.

"We have to treat our opponents with respect, though, because anything can happen in the cup."

Celtic head into the semi-final on the back of a slender 1-0 victory over Ross County in the Scottish Premiership.

And while Deila's men sit on top of the Scottish top flight, Rangers are second in the second tier, 13 points off leaders Hearts.

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