Ex-Rangers captain Barry Ferguson believes the winner of the Scottish Premiership will be whichever side comes out on top in the most Old Firm clashes.

Celtic are on the hut for nine-in-a-row while Gers are desperate to halt their rivals' domestic dominance.

Both sides flattened their opponents last weekend - Celtic with a 5-2 win at Motherwell and Rangers thrashing Hibs 6-1 - and Ferguson reckons that could potentially be a common occurrence this campaign.

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That's why he's tipping whoever wins the big games to win the big one come next May.

Speaking on PLZ Soccer, Ferguson said: "I think it's going to come down to Old Firm games, if I'm being honest.

"I think both teams look formidable and strong.

"Celtic are still looking to strengthen and Steven Gerrard has mentioned he's looking to bring another player in.

"Both of them are looking far too strong for everybody else, so it'll come down to the Old Firm games."

Ferguson starred for the Light Blues between 1997 and 2003 before heading back to Ibrox for a second four-year stint in 2005.

And he's always kept an eye on the fortunes of his club.

Having watched Steven Gerrard's debut season last term, the former Scotland midfielder is certain the Liverpool legend has come into his own in Glasgow.

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In fact, Ferguson can already see the improvements.

He added: "Rangers look a different team this year, a lot more energy about them in the wide areas.

"I was really impressed, I know Hibs got a man sent-off but sometimes it's difficult to play against ten men.

"Every time they went forward they looked dangerous, they attacked at real pace.

"[Gerrard] is going for it this year, they look really strong."