Tom Lawrence warned that writing off the Rangers would bring out the best in them.
The Light Blues were not well liked in pre-season as they were in yet another period of transition and Celtic were once again on top form. An unconvincing start to the season – draw with Hearts, narrow win against Motherwell and elimination from the Champions League – was the result.
But they followed that up with a thumping 6-0 win over Ross County at the weekend, the perfect time to build confidence ahead of their first derby of the season against Celtic on Sunday. Most see the Hoops as favourites, but Lawrence insists he and his team-mates are used to being written off.
He said: “I think everyone wrote us off before we even kicked a ball, right? So we’re used to it and looking forward to next week.”
“I think it (being written off) brings out the best in you. You take it with a pinch of salt and that’s the main thing. You try to perform every time you step on the field.”
“Social media comments or newspaper comments are not discussed in the dressing room. We are a good team and stick together in good times and bad.”
The Welsh international was delighted to put on a show for fans at Hampden, scoring a goal and providing an assist, and says he is always keen to entertain.
He added: “That’s what we want to do in every game. We want to put in a good performance, especially at home for our fans. One goal conceded and six goals, that’s always nice.”
“What do we need next week to get a positive result at Celtic Park? We need to play to the best of our ability. That’s what we try to do in every game. We know it’s a big game and we’re looking forward to it.”
