APRIL COOL

Mere presence of CCV on pitch helps team-mates handle the heat says Stubbs

- CRAIG SWAN

ALAN STUBBS reckons cool head Cameron CarterVickers again holds a key to Ibrox success for Celtic because he brings peace of mind, not merely muscle.

The former Hoops defender believes the American's assurance and the leadership of skipper Callum McGregor can offer inspiration to team-mates.

And, crucially, the pair can take the heat out of the Old Firm cauldron facing the Premiership champions come Sunday

Stubbs knows the influence of Carter-Vickers within Brendan Rodgers' unit is massive.

As a former centre-back, the Liverpudlian is appreciative of the talents possessed by the World Cup stopper.

Carter-Vickers, of course, has shown himself adept in this scenario before.

Two years ago to the day yesterday, he grabbed the winner at one end and defended heroically down the other as Ange Postecoglous men grabbed a priceless victory in Govan.

Stubbs, though, believes Carter-Vickers' ability to lift others around him is just as vital as his own contribution.

The USA star is returning to peak fitness, having racked up five run-outs since his return at Motherwell in February after enduring injury issues at various points of this campaign.

His reappearance at this time of the campaign is crucial to Celtic and Stubbs knows it.

He said: "The biggest thing about him since he has come back into the team is just the presence of being there among the other players.

"That's a huge thing to consider because when you have your big players, you are going to the big grounds and the importance of the game, you need that.

"When you are able to look around and know you have the likes of a CarterVickers, you think, "Yeah, we've got a chance here'.