Ange Postecoglou will again look to exercise pilot-like control during Celtic’s Viaplay Cup final against Rangers at Hampden Park on Sunday.
The Hoops boss will be in the midst of the usual cauldron of an Old Firm game as both sides battle it out for the first piece of silverware of the season.
However, while 50,000 excited fans will bring passion and noise to the occasion, Postecoglou will be clear-headed in the technical area as he focuses only on guiding the holders to victory. He said: ‘For me it is (easy) as it has been my job for 26 years.
‘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 a human being. I am not happy when we don’t win and I am delighted when we do. 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 fans don’t expect me to have the same emotions going into a big game.
‘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.’
Postecoglou, 57, was critical of the Hampden pitch during the 2-0 semi-final win over Kilmarnock but yesterday declared himself happier.
He said: ‘It has improved, definitely. It had to. It looked in better condition.
‘Hopefully the weather is kind to us this week and it gives a chance for both teams to play at a good level.
‘It looked like they have done a fair bit of work on it, which is pleasing.’
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