Derby County midfielder Graeme Shinnie told talkSPORT how Rangers appear stronger than Celtic right now as the duo look set for a tight Scottish Premiership title race.
Shinnie spent four years at Aberdeen prior to joining Derby in the summer.
The Scotland international will know all about the qualities which Celtic and Rangers currently possess, having faced the Glasgow duo numerous times in recent years.
But when put on the spot by talkSPORT’s Jim White, Shinnie feels Steven Gerrard’s Rangers are right now the stronger side. He said, quoted by The Scottish Sun.
It’s going to be a lot closer than we’ve had over the last couple of years. I think Rangers are strong this year but you can never rule Celtic out and what they’ve achieved in the last three years. I don’t know, you’re putting me on the spot. If I had to say one, I would probably say Rangers are looking the strongest just now.
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Derby County’s Graeme Shinnie had reported interest from Celtic and Rangers:
Shinnie’s comments are even more interesting following his summer move.
The Bristol Post claimed both Rangers and Celtic were keen on the versatile midfielder. Shinnie’s contract at Aberdeen was expiring, and his heart was set on a move.
But the Scottish clubs missed out as Derby agreed a deal for him.
Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes told the Aberdeen Evening Express that Derby’s size and the potential of promotion to the Premier League was the main pull for Shinnie.
The Dons have missed his presence this season as they sit in fourth spot in the Scottish Premiership table, seven points adrift of Rangers and Celtic.
The Old Firm rivals have already played each other this season as the Hoops beat Rangers 2-0 at Ibrox. The next fixture between the two will take place on December 29.
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