Gary Caldwell insists Celtic must ignore the hype and the prophets of doom and focus on the fact they are now nine games from glory.Rangers head into the clash with a three-point lead at the top of the SPL, and a game in hand, hoping a win would cause irreparable damage to Celtic's hopes of retaining their crown.

But, as far as Caldwell is concerned, the trip to Ibrox provides the ideal the opportunity for Celtic to demonstrate their own title credentials and show they are still the best team in the country.

The Hoops defender said: "There are nine games left and, if we win them all, we are champions. It's as simple as that.

"It starts on Saturday and we must win to put pressure on Rangers. We set out to win the title at the start of the season, it's always been the aim, and I'm sure we'll do it."

Asked if Celtic are a better team than Rangers despite SPL standings, he replied: "Yes, I think we are.

"We have players who can hurt teams and it's about getting those players on the ball in areas to do that. Saturday's game will prove who is better."

Rangers have emerged triumphant in all three Old Firm clashes since Walter Smith's return to the Ibrox helm 15 months ago.

The most recent of those - the 3-0 win at Ibrox earlier this season - proved to be a comprehensive defeat for Celtic and Caldwell admits a similar outcome this weekend is not an option.

"Defeat is never an option in an Old Firm game," he said.

"It's not a nice feeling for the players, the staff and everyone involved with the club. Saturday is no different.

"We don't want to lose, we want to go and win the game and we will be doing everything we can to do that.

"We know it's a big game and we know we have to close the gap at some point.

"We've been waiting for this opportunity for a long time and I'm sure we can take it. Saturday is our chance to close the gap."

Caldwell was one of four Celtic players involved in Scotland's midweek friendly against Croatia at Hampden, while Rangers caused a stir by withdrawing as many of their own players through injury.

Skipper Barry Ferguson, Lee McCulloch, Christian Dailly and Allan McGregor are all now expected to report fit for Saturday's clash.

"I think they had genuine injuries and had to rest and look after themselves," said Caldwell.

"I don't think you can question their willingness to play for their country, I'm sure they were genuinely injured.

"They had to pull out and we didn't. That isn't going to have any bearing on Saturday."

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