Jordan Pickford Makes Questionable Celtic vs Rangers Claim
We are less than a week away from the Glasgow derby and the anticipation is already building up for what could turn out to be a season-defining game for both Celtic and Rangers.
Celtic have stumbled in recent weeks. When Michael Beale was sacked, the title race had looked over for all intents and purposes unless something unexpected happened.
Unfortunately, the unexpected has happened. Celtic have looked toothless going forward and leaky at the back in recent weeks, dropping 8 points over their previous 6 Premiership games.
As a result, Rangers are now not only back in the title race but they might also be in the driver's seat, with all the momentum on their side.
The Glasgow derby is often a one-off game though and form goes out of the window. There is nothing quite like it and Celtic must take advantage of the Parkhead atmosphere when they take to the pitch next weekend.
Interestingly, Jordan Pickford seems to believe that the derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland is on par with the Glasgow derby.
According to Sunderland Echo, the Everton and England national number one told BeIN Sports about the Wear-Tyne derby: "The fixtures have fell into place so hopefully, I can go and show my support.
"Personally, I don't think in the country that there's a bigger derby. I think it is on par with Celtic-Rangers.
"For me, It is one of the biggest derbies atmosphere-wise. It is a great day out for home and away fans. It is a great day and the atmosphere is right up there for me."
Pickford came up through the Sunderland academy and played senior football for the club too before making his move to Everton. So, the derby surely has sentimental value for him.
Newcastle United and Sunderland have been drawn to face each other in the third round of the FA Cup this season. With the two teams playing in different divisions, the fixture has become rare in recent years, so one should expect a great atmosphere.
Despite that, it does not feel like the Newcastle United vs Sunderland derby can come close to the Glasgow derby, its history and the magnitude of the support the two clubs enjoy, not just in England but around the world.
