Former Celtic ace says Rangers have 'a better chance than last time' in Scottish Cup semi

Former Celtic striker Frank McGarvey believes Rangers have a much better chance against his old club than they did last season - but still makes the Parkhead side favourites for the Scottish Cup semi-final.

The Old Firm rivals were the first two teams out of the hat for the last four draw earlier today.

The pair met in last season's League Cup semi-finals when Celtic comfortably won 2-0 but Championship leaders Rangers will go into the latest meeting with far more confidence following their 4-0 quarter-final victory over Dundee. Celtic beat Morton 3-0 on Sunday.

McGarvey, who played for the Hoops between 1980 and 1985, leaving the club after scoring the winner against Dundee United in the final that season, believes Hampden Park could be sold out five times over, no problem, this is a big, big game'', but expects Ronny Deila's men to come through.

He said: It is a fantastic draw, maybe this could spark Scottish football into life again.

Rangers have a better chance this time, they had no chance last year.

Rangers beat a Premiership side, Dundee comfortably 4-0 at Ibrox after Celtic drew 0-0 against them in the league so there won't be a lot between them. Celtic will have to be at their best to beat them.

I think Celtic will win the game, they will be looking forward to it, it will put an edge on them which will help them in the league as well, they will need to sharpen up but they are no certainties.

I put Celtic favourites because they have the best centre forward in the country in Leigh Griffiths, he makes all the difference.

Also, Celtic have a big squad whereas Rangers can't afford any injuries to their important players, that's why I am making Celtic favourites.''

The tie will take place on the weekend of April 16-17.

In the other semi-final, Dundee United will take on the winner of a replay between Inverness and Hibs.