Rangers 'FEAR' of title race hands Celtic advantage as Hoops hero backs them for double

Paul Lambert reckons Rangers' stutter in the title race has been down to a FEAR factor.

Philippe Clement worked wonders to claw Gers back into the running for the Premiership trophy after a disastrous start under Michael Beale. They even managed to briefly overtake Celtic at the summit but then dropping points in two games against Dundee and Ross County handed Brendan Rodgers' men the initiative once again.

That defeat and draw within four days of each other came after a draw in the derby and there was also a defeat to Motherwell weeks before, meaning the Light Blues had only one win in five league games until victory over St Mirren got them back on track last weekend.

Hoops hero Lambert feels fear has played a big part in all of the matches in which Clement's side have dropped points.

Asked for his take on the two derbies to come, one in the league and one cup final, he told talkSPORT: "The one at Parkhead is going to be pivotal to what's going to happen.

"Whoever wins that will win the title. Celtic are favourites. They're in the driving seat.

"Rangers had a fear factor in the last few games when they've not got the points, whereas Celtic have kicked on again. Parkhead will be formidable for Rangers to get a result.

"The Scottish Cup Final can go either way because of the 50/50 split. But I just think Celtic at the minute have got the upper hand."