Russell has had a rocky start but if you bring in poor players even Pep Guardiola would struggle

Big Dunc fears Martin's recruits have shown no sign yet of improving Gers and Old Firm defeat could spell big trouble

- BY GORDON PARKS

TITLE races aren't usually decided in August but Duncan Ferguson believes this afternoon's Old Firm clash is D-Day.

A Celtic win would open up a nine-point gap that the former Ibrox striker fears could be insurmountable just four games into a new season.

Some bookies have already paid out on the Hoops making it five-in-a-row as Russell

Martin’s reign coincides with the worst start to a campaign by the Ibrox side for 36 years.

Throw in Wednesday night’s 6-0 embarrassment against Club Brugge that ended any Champions League participation for Rangers and had fans calling for Martin's head.

But Big Dunc reckons earning three points against the odds today could be transformational and shift the storm clouds hanging over his old club.

He insists there is still time for a reboot if they can get a result against Brendan Rodgers’ side.

He said: "You can't dress up the performance in Brugge.

"It put the tin lid on what's been a dreadful start for Rangers this season. It was clearly unacceptable but if rock bottom is to be the starting point for some improvement then the derby is an ideal opportunity.

"I watched the Rangers game against St Mirren last weekend - you could see how vulnerable Gers were at the back.

"The balance of the defence was off at the goal they conceded — one penetrating pass found a runner who did well to finish - but it was a struggle for most of the game.

"You saw all of that vulnerability again in the second leg against Brugge.