Ange Postecoglou promises calm as he aims to pilot Celtic to cup glory

Ange Postecoglou says he’ll remain calm amidst the noise and colour of Hampden on Sunday as Celtic aim to beat Rangers to lift the Viaplay Cup.

The Glasgow rivals meet at the national stadium to contest the first silverware of the season with both teams on a strong run of form.

A sell-out crowd will add to the pressure on both sides as they go toe to toe and the managers on the touchline will have a huge part to play in making sure their teams play to their best.

Postecoglou says maintaining his cool and keeping focus on the game is something he’s well used to, even when passions are running high.

“For me it is (easy) because it has been my job for 26 years,” he said.

“When a pilot lands a plane he knows what he is doing.

“You are not making it up as you go along so I like to think that after 26 years I know what I am doing.

“I am still a human being. I am not happy when we don’t win and I am delighted when we do. I guess what I am talking about is that part of being a fan is allowing yourself to lose yourself in moments whether good or bad.

“If you want to shout abuse you have to do that, if you want to be in delirium because you have won something you are allowed to be that.

“But I don’t think that’s what they expect from their manager. Our supporters don’t expect me to have the same emotions going into a big game like this.

“They want me to be clear-headed out there to make the right decisions and try to prepare the team in the best possible way.

“But I am very, very passionate, I don’t take defeat well, I do love winning.”

The Celtic boss, who was pleased to see that the playing surface at the national stadium has improved since last month’s semi-finals, is looking forward to the match and believes a full house, and an even split of tickets, will make for a memorable afternoon. With the league matches played in front of crowds where only a tiny fraction are from the away side, there’s a noticable difference.

“It is a different atmosphere, it is a real derby atmosphere,” Postecoglou said.

“When we play at Celtic Park or Ibrox the atmosphere is very parochial in one way, for the home team. I think it is an advantage absolutely.

“We feel that when we play at Celtic Park, having our supporters there, 60,000 of them, helps us.

“But in terms of the spectacle and a derby, having it split, particularly in a cup final, adds to the theatre of it.

“I believe that and I think the players and everyone involved enjoy that because you get a bit of everything in there.”