I'll go head-to-head with Walter Smith on golf course after Old Firm clash, says Celtic boss Gordon Strachan

Aug 31 2008 By Mark Guidi

GORDON STRACHAN will use today's Old Firm clash at Parkhead to set up a round of golf with rival boss Walter Smith.

The pair will be enemies for 90 minutes as their sides battle it out for the first time this season.

But the Celtic boss is keen to stay friends off the field and can't wait to catch up with Smith today so he can finally seal a trip to Loch Lomond.

Strachan said: "I haven't met Walter yet this season. We'll have a cup of tea and a blether after the game.

"We were meant to play golf together but haven't had the time to organise it.

"Walter has said he'll take me to play at Loch Lomond. That will be good as I enjoy Walter's company and I'm desperate to play there."

Strachan reckons he has a unique bond with the Ibrox gaffer because nobody else can understand the pressure they work under.

He said: "People might think they understand but they don't. Only Walter will know what it's like, what you feel in an Old Firm game.

"It must be the same for the players. I'd have loved to have played in an Old Firm game but never did.

"You might think you've seen it all before but you haven't. Old Firm games can throw up so me thing completely different."

Celtic are level on points with Rangers heading in to today's clash but Strachan knows the title race won't be decided today.

He said: "A win here doesn't mean you will win the league. But you still want to come away victorious.

"You can never plan an Old Firm clash. It's easy to talk a good game but you have to be able to deliver.

"However, the players will be hyped up for the match."