GLASGOW, Nov 9 (SW) – In Glasgow, no Old Firm game remains meaningless, but tonight’s CIS Insurance Cup quarter-final opposing Rangers to Celtic at Parkhead will be more than just another derby game for Ibrox manager Alex McLeish, potentially facing the chop following his side’s disappointing campaign start.

Rangers currently 12 lengths behind joint-leaders Celtic and Hearts, following yet another draw at the weekend (0-0 against Aberdeen), ‘pressure is mounting on McLeish’ has officially become an understatement, as the Scottish manager faces huge criticism and is forced to see his fate potentially played tonight in what promises to be a tough encounter for the Govan side.

Despite McLeish’s defiant mood and the alleged backing from the Ibrox board, needless to say CIS Cup holders Rangers will be playing for their manager at Parkhead tonight, with a new debacle certainly set to see the end of McLeish’s era at Ibrox, should the visitors fail to reach the fans’ expectations.

“Fixtures don't come bigger than this, there's no better opportunity to prove yourself. A full house, a great occasion, one to savour. I relish another great battle with Celtic,” said McLeish.

As far as the line-ups are concerned, Brahim Hemdani is more than likely to sit out the encounter, after picking up a thigh injury against Aberdeen at the weekend, while Peter Lovenkrands could be in contention for tonight’s tie.

Meanwhile, Gordon Strachan will have to do without the services of Maciej Zurawski and Craig Beattie, but will be uplifted by the return of Alan Thompson from suspension.