NEW YEAR NO FEAR

That tells you everything you need to know about the importance of the game just around the corner - an Old Firm derby Rangers cannot afford to lose, at any cost.

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TWO days to go and there's a knot in my stomach already.

In fact, it's probably closer to the truth to say Monday's meeting with the side from across the city is one that Michael Beale and his players simply have to win.

And as much as I'd love to predict they'll get the victory they so desperately need, I must admit I'm not feeling 100 per cent confident about their chances.

There's a horrible thought in the back of my mind that by 2pm on January 2 Rangers could be stranded 12 points behind Celtic. And believe me, I'm trying my very best to ignore it.

But there's nothing to be gained here in pretending that Beale and his boys aren't going to find themselves right up against it when they walk out of that tunnel to face a side which is going about its business with all guns blazing right now.

Yes, in this part of the world there's a temptation to grudge giving the other lot any kind of credit.

But Rangers would only be fooling themselves if they don't acknowledge just how dangerous their rivals have become under Ange Postecoglou.

I might not like admitting it myself but the Aussie has put together a very impressive team and a high-tempo style of play that is impossible not to admire even through my old blue lenses. If Rangers are in denial about any of that then they might have a nasty surprise coming their way on Monday lunchtime.

But that doesn't mean they should be scared of it. On the contrary, they should be absolutely bursting with excitement.