Post-split Old Firm could be 'winner takes all' derby - Thomson

Ex-Rangers midfielder Kevin Thomson believes next month's post-split Old Firm encounter is set up to be a "winner takes all" derby - as long as his former side don't slip up again.

Thomson feels Celtic are now in the driving seat given the Ibrox side's shock defeat at Ross County on Sunday, but victory in their game in hand at Dundee on Wednesday will move them within a point of their rivals.

Rangers have four fixtures, including a Scottish Cup semi-final with Hearts, to navigate before the final league derby of the campaign.

Providing both the top two win all their Premiership games until then, the Govan club may well have to claim a rare victory at Celtic Park if they are to win the title.

"The Ross County defeat was a sore one," Thomson said on the Scottish Football Podcast. "It was a dagger to the heart for all the fans because now the onus is on Rangers to not slip up again.

"In recent times it looks as though Celtic are starting to hit a bit of form as well. But I still think there are going to be lots of twists and turns.

"The third [Old Firm game] after the split could be a winner takes all, so what an exciting climax there could be, but I certainly don't think it's over at all."