Kris Commons is not expecting the Old Firm rivalry to roar straight back into Scottish football next season.

Commons and his Celtic teammates are on the verge of a fourth-straight Scottish Premiership while their Glasgow foes Rangers are sitting second in the Championship and will need to qualify for the top flight through the play-offs.

Even if they do happen to achieve promotion, however, midfielder Commons suggests plenty of personnel strengthening is required at Ibrox if Stuart McCall's 'Gers want to challenge their arch rivals next season.

"It's hard to say. First of all, they have got to get up," said Commons.

"Secondly, they have got to sign some players that are worthy of challenging us. I think they are nowhere near that at the minute.

"That's all ifs and buts. That might take six months, it might take six weeks.

"But, when any new manager comes in, no matter how good or bad, you will get a reaction from players wanting to make an impression. I think that's why they have had a little turn in events.

"But, for me, commenting on them making a challenge, it is the same as talking about Hearts. We played them twice this year and beat them convincingly.

"So, it will be difficult, I'd say."