Whittaker: We can still be winners even if we lose

Apr 27 2008 By Mark Guidi

Celtic V Rangers Today, Kick-Off 12.30pm Live On Setanta Sports

STEVEN WHITTAKER has insisted Rangers will bounce back to win the SPL title even if they lose to Celtic this afternoon at Parkhead.

The Hoops can open up a five-point lead at the top by beating their bitter rivals for the second time in 11 days.

But Gers still have three games in hand and Whittaker knows it's not the end of their championship charge if Gordon Strachan's men come out on top.

The £2million summer signing from Hibs said: "It's important to take something from the game and that will be our aim. But if the worst thing happens and we lose at Parkhead at least the title will still be in our own hands.

"We will have enough games in hand to get back on top of the table and win the league.

"Old Firm matches can turn in to a battle and we will need to be ready. We must defend well as a team."

Rangers had one hand on the title before Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink's injury-time winner kept Celtic's hopes alive in the last derby.

Whittaker admits that was a bitter blow but claims his side are stronger for the experience.

He said: "Celtic play right to the end and we must be on our toes in the second game.

"We felt aggrieved at losing a last-minute goal. It was hard to take but it has made us better and stronger for the experience.

"We know we must concentrate to the death at Parkhead. It's the way it has to be.

"It's important to be on top of our game as they are a capable team in full swing. Celtic have good players but so do we."

Whittaker has played in several positions this season as Gers chase glory at home and abroad.

But he said: "It's not a problem forme. I enjoy playing for Rangers.

"We've been involved in many games but I don't feel tired.

"There is a lot of mental pressure in every match at Rangers but tiredness is not an issue for me.

"I came here to win trophies and we have a chance of lifting four. So I am not going to complain about there being too many games.

"I'm pleased I have made a contribution since coming here and the whole team has delivered for the manager."

After Parkhead, Gers head to Italy for the second leg of their UEFA Cup semi-final with Fiorentina.

And Whittaker would love to crack home a crucial away goal after his superb solo effort against Sporting Lisbon in the last round.

He said: "We are capable of going through to the final.

"We can go there and counter attack. I know it might not always be pleasing on the eye but it has worked for us in Europe. I hope we can get another positive result."