Martyn Waghorn believes Rangers are in a "better place" to beat Celtic than last season's Scottish Cup semi-final.

Mark Warburton's men, then in the Scottish Championship, stunned the Hoops by winning on penalties after a 2-2 draw following extra time.

The Ibrox striker was speaking before their Betfred Cup last-four clash against the Hoops on Sunday and is bullish about their chances after their Hampden heroics last time around.

That result proved to be the beginning of the end for Ronny Deila at Celtic Park, who was replaced by Brendan Rodgers in the summer.

Both sides have gone through a period of transition since then, with Celtic emerging the stronger.

The Rangers striker, who missed the Hampden showdown last time around, is nevertheless convinced they are in better shape compared to their last meeting with Celtic at the national stadium.

"It's a completely different fixture from last year," Waghorn said.

"There's different personnel and different scenarios. There is a lot more emphasis on this game after the game at Hampden.

"It's one of those things where - when it comes round - you've got to be prepared for it mentally and physically, and I think we are in the best shape.

"Even from last year, I think we are in a better position from then to go forward and get a result from this game."

Waghorn admits the players are still hurting from their 5-1 thumping at Celtic Park in September but insists they have benefited from the humbling experience.

"It was difficult because I came on as they scored the third," he said.

"We got the sending off and the game turned dramatically. I thought the way we started the second half we were right back in it, unfortunately, they have gone up the other end and scored - that's football.

"It's how we react to it in this game going forward."

He added: "We've learned from that defeat, it hurt but we've worked hard and we've built on that.

"We've taken the positives from the game and we've applied it from there on in.

"It's going to be a different game. There's a final up for grabs so it's a big incentive."