The Scottish champions boast a four-point advantage over Rangers at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.

And the Glasgow giants are both aware that the clash at Ibrox on December 27 could play a part in the outcome of the title race, with Celtic seeking a fourth successive championship.

But first up for Gordon Strachan's men is a visit to the Falkirk Stadium on Sunday and McDonald has warned against any further slip-ups following dropped points against Hibernian and Hearts.

"It's another big game for us and around this period of the season every point is vital," the striker told the Celtic View.

"Last year, we had a bit of a disappointing Christmas and we've had a couple of blows in the last few weeks, so we want to put a stop to this and get three points.

"This is a crucial time for us and we know that we won't get it easy against Falkirk.

"After that, we play Rangers and Dundee United, so it's a really important Christmas period.

"Falkirk are a good side. They always seem to make it tough for us, but the good thing about them is that they play the game the right way.

"John Hughes likes his players to get the ball down and pass it. That's his philosophy on the game and you can see it in their style of play.

"No matter what happens, they never change their approach and you need to credit them for that.

"Hopefully at the weekend the conditions allow both teams to get the ball down and we see a good game."