Rangers manager Walter Smith reckons today’s Old Firm derby is of vital importance for both them and Celtic (2/1 to win – Rangers v Celtic coupon).

The Glasgow rivals are currently separated by seven points in the Scottish Premier League and victory for Rangers (13/10, draw 12/5 – Rangers v Celtic) could see them extend their lead to a massive ten points plus a game in hand.

Celtic will be gunning for victory in the lunch-time kick off to cut the deficit to four points and keep their faint hopes of winning the title still alive (Rangers 1/6, Celtic 7/2 – Scottish Premier League outright 2009/2010).

Smith is hoping that goalkeeper Allan McGregor will be fit to play in the game after being attacked on a night out, while he also expects Lee McCulloch to be able to take part.

The Rangers manager said the match was “a must-win game” for both Rangers and Celtic.

“We’ve got to go into the game hoping to win it. Both teams are exactly the same,” said the former national manager.

“There are quite a number of games to be played so it’s too early for us to be making assumptions about championships.”

The biggest injury worry for Celtic concerns on-loan striker Robbie Keane (6/1 – First Goalscorer), who has not trained this week and is due to be assessed by medical staff before the kick-off.