To give added spice to what is always a tense affair, both sides go into the match on eight-game winning runs in the SPL.

Hoops boss Neil Lennon has yet to lose a league game since taking over from Tony Mowbray in March while the Ibrox men are unbeaten in three competitions this season, including three games in the Champions League.

However, the Sweden international, who will be one of several Celtic players making their Old Firm debut, said: "I don't think this game will decide anything in the league.

"It will be a psychological boost but I don't think it will change too much.

"But, of course, if you win the game you are three points ahead and that's always good.

"It's always important to win your home games, especially the derbies.

"We are playing against a very good Rangers, who have had a very good run in the Champions League as well as in the SPL.

"We have quality, they have quality, so it will be tough."

The former AEK Athens defender, who has been stand-in skipper this season, insists he has no problem about Lennon's decision to give the captaincy to Shaun Maloney in the absence of injured Scott Brown.

"Not at all," he said.

"The manager doesn't need to explain anything. He chose Shaun and I think it was the right choice.

"He has been at the club a long time, so I am happy for him but more sad that Scott is injured.

"As I said before, you need to have 11 captains - it doesn't matter if you have the armband or not.

"And I believe there is enough leadership in the team at the moment.

"We have had a very good run in the league and we are in a good way."