Ex-Celtic midfielder and manager Billy Stark feels winning the Old Firm derby against Rangers next month would help to boost Ronny Deila’s credentials amongst the Bhoys supporters.
The Norwegian has come in for criticism from some corners this season, owing to Celtic’s inconsistency, with some even claiming that he is not suited to guiding a club of Celtic’s stature.
The Hoops, whose hopes of a domestic treble were shattered after losing 3-1 to Ross County in the Scottish League Cup in January, were also knocked out of the group stages of the Europa League, following the club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League group stage.
However, Celtic are currently one point clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership with a game in hand, in addition to managing to reach the Scottish Cup semi-final, where they will face Rangers at Hampden on 17th April.
And Stark thinks Celtic coming out victorious from the Old Firm derby would help Deila to win back some of his lost support.
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“Deila could win back some of the fans if he wins”, he was quoted as saying by the Herald Scotland.
“The Old Firm does that. Going back to my first Old Firm game, winning it cements your standing among the supporters.
“For Deila, to win that game would repair a lot of the damage that has been done – without a doubt.
"So in some ways for him, if it turns out right it’s a great draw. Before it, I’m not sure he would have wanted this game.”
Deila’s team beat Rangers 2-0 in a Scottish League Cup game last season.
