Neil Lennon has surprisingly hailed four Rangers players ahead of this weekend's League Cup final - but the former Celtic boss insists not one Ibrox player would get in his combined starting XI.

Michael Beale and Ange Postecoglou are preparing to go head-to-head this Sunday at Hampden Park for the first domestic trophy of the Scottish football season.

Lennon expects a cracking contest between two strong teams, but he could not sway away from his loyalties when asked for his strongest XI between Celtic and Rangers.

He told Football Betting: "There's no question that I like some of the current Rangers players. Ryan Kent is a handful and Alfredo Morelos is the same.

"Allan McGregor is a top goalkeeper and has been for a long time and Tavernier's goal contributions record is exemplary so there are players that I do admire - whether I'd pick them in a combined XI is another thing!"

On the match itself, Lennon continued: "It's really intense, even the build up. The best thing about it is when the game starts and you can kind of get lost in the game.

"Celtic will probably go in as favourites but you can't call it. For me it can go either way.

"I think the first goal in these games is always really important. Celtic are in great form, they've been perfect since the draw at Ibrox. 

"It will be about which team adapts best to the atmosphere and the conditions. In terms of the league, they are nine clear with a huge goal difference.

"Psychologically if Celtic win it will totally deflate Rangers. But if Rangers win it will give them a bit lift until the end of the season.

"I think Celtic will win 2-1 or 3-1 - I think both teams will score.

"But they're playing so well, they can score from so many areas. I really like the mentality of this team and they are so fluid."