Jermain Defoe is upbeat about Rangers’ chances of winning the title this season after heading into the international break top of the table, but his comments will only fire Celtic up even more.

According to HITC, Defoe told talkSPORT that he believes Rangers are on the verge of “something special” under Steven Gerrard.

We’re confident, when I look at the players beside me you have to be confident. There’s a lot of internationals, young players who are hungry. You have to respect Celtic but I feel that if we continue to keep doing what we’re doing, and the spirit we have now in the club, it’s only a matter of time before we achieve something special.

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Defoe’s comments will only motivate Celtic further, after the likes of Ryan Jack and Sheyi Ojo have both made bold claims about the Hoops’ chances already this season. 

Although Rangers are currently top of the league, the margin is just two points and Gerrard’s side will no doubt suffer a draw or defeat in the future.