Former Celtic striker Andy Walker has weighed in on the eagerly anticipated clash between Celtic and Rangers at Ibrox, confidently asserting that Celtic's formidable four-man spine will give them the edge in Sunday's match.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Walker highlighted the strength of Celtic's core, pinpointing key players who he believes will play pivotal roles in securing victory for the Hoops.

Walker began his analysis by emphasizing the significance of goalkeeper Joe Hart, describing him as a focal point for Celtic's ambitions: “When you look at the spin of the team you have Hart in goal, it’s his last season, he will be focussed.

“In front of him, the fact Cameron Carter-Vickers is back fit is a huge boost for Celtic. He is the leader in the heart of Celtic’s defence.

“In front of him you have got, I think Callum McGregor, hopefully coming back to be a captain and lead the way. He knows how to get the job done.

“And then you have a special striker in Kyogo. This guy has a terrific record in big games, especially against Rangers, and that’s why he’ll start ahead of Adam Idah I’m sure.”

One of the major controversies ahead of Sunday's showdown is the appointment of referee John Beaton, who was publicly criticised by Brendan Rodgers for his handling of VAR in Celtic's 2-0 defeat against Hearts last month.

But Walker insists the players won't be worrying about the identity of the man in black once the action begins.

"I don't think you will find any Celtic players worrying about a refereeing performance on Sunday. I think what we do have is a poor group of referees," he said. "I think what has happened in Scotland is the introduction of VAR has exposed them for being pretty weak. I am all for having a firm and fair referee in the middle of the park - who goes with the decision.

"The amount of times they are just getting another opinion from someone that has seen it different - the idea of getting the right call is just an impossibility. There are so many subjective decisions and you have got to give it to the man in the middle.

"I don't think you will find any Celtic player having any qualms about John Beaton being the referee. But obviously, you can get controversy. The one thing you are guaranteed is controversy.

"You can talk about a throw in for three or four days in these games. I don't think Celtic players will have qualms about John Beaton being the referee - they will want to do what they are good at, which is establish themselves on the day and try and get another win."