JORG ALBERTZ insists Rangers cannot be written off against Celtic this weekend - despite their underdog status.

The Light Blue legions will head to Hampden more in hope than expectation as they get set to face their Old Firm rivals for the first time in three years.

There is a huge gulf between the clubs on and off the park, but Albertz reckons the unpredictability of football proves anything is possible.

He said: "Celtic, we know, are the favourites at the moment in the circumstances, but every game needs to be played.

"Our boys need to go out and give 110% for themselves, for the club, for the support. Then, after the game, we will see who wins.

"Anything can happen in football. You saw Germany beat Brazil 7-1 in the semi-final of last year's World Cup finals. Whoever expected a result like that?

"That is the good thing about football, you never can predict it. At the end of the day, why should they not win? That is the good thing about football and why we all love football. Things happen that we don't expect."

Albertz was the hero of many a Celtic clash during his Ibrox playing career as he forever endeared himself to Gers fans.

And the German midfielder hopes the crowd can inspire Kenny McDowall's side to a memorable Hampden triumph on Sunday.

He said: "It means a little bit extra when you score against Celtic. But, as a football player, every goal, it doesn't matter if it is a slide in or whatever, when you score a goal it is always nice.

"For me, there was never a better game than the Old Firm. If you win the game and score against Celtic, that means that bit extra. It is a dream.

"The noise in Old Firm games is outstanding. That makes you run.

"Even if you are tired, that keeps you going. We are all looking forward to the game and we will see who will win it.

"If you are a young boy out there and you have the crowd behind you, it really lifts you."