THE inevitable debut of fiery new Bhoy Craig Bellamy and the return of Rangers midfield hero Barry Ferguson will add extra spice to tomorrow's Old Firm clash at Parkhead.

This weekend's Bank of Scotland Premier League Glasgow derby is the most eagerly-awaited for some time with both teams locked on the same points at the summit.

Martin O'Neill claims that Celtic are right to be Old Firm favourites - but denies that victory for his side would decide the destination of the championship.

Champions Celtic have a game in hand and have not been beaten by their fierce city rivals in 11 matches - a run stemming back to March 8, 2000.

So it is no surprise that their manager believes they have the upper hand despite Rangers' recent good form.

"Are we favourites to win the game?" he smiled. "We're at home so why shouldn't we be? Let's go and try to win it."

A victory tomorrow would certainly put Celtic in the championship driving seat but O'Neill added, "I don't think it is the title decider. It's far too early to call and I would say that even if we won.

"If you look at other leagues, people are saying that if Chelsea slip up there is a possibility of Arsenal and Manchester United ganging up and that's a nine-point gap.

"So, as you can imagine, there are still 13 games to go and 14 for us, so I don't think it is going to decide anything."

Alex McLeish has yet to win at Celtic Park as Rangers boss, but O'Neill insists there is never anything between to the sides.

The calm Northern Irishman explained, "I always think these games are equally balanced and there hasn't been much between the sides for the last four and half years.

"There wasn't anything in the transfer window to change my mind about it. They are very tough games.

"I look forward to them with the same amount of apprehension and excitement as well.

"There are no changes on that score even though some people have said that we have met this season too many times.

"The novelty has not worn off on my myself with these games. They are big matches and attract a big audience and I hope it is a good game and we win."

Discipline is going to be crucial in the intense cauldron of the battle this weekend but O'Neill feels it would be patronising to warn temperamental star Bellamy and Stephane Henchoz about keeping their cool on derby day.

"I don't think I have to do anything," he continued. "The game is a very, very passionate affair. But Stephane Henchoz and Craig Bellamy have played very big games throughout their careers so it's not worth mentioning."