Aiden McGeady hopes Rangers' gruelling schedule can work in Celtic's favour as the title race nears its conclusion.
Celtic will have had seven days rest before Sunday's Old Firm derby, while Rangers face Fiorentina in the Uefa Cup semi-finals on Thursday.
"I think the break will help us," said the Celtic midfielder. "We only have the league to concentrate on.
"The fact they have got so many games and such a short period of time to play them all could hinder Rangers."
Celtic are two points clear at the top of the table following Saturday's 1-0 win over Aberdeen but Rangers have played three games less.
On Sunday, Rangers needed extra-time and penalties to beat St Johnstone and reach the Scottish Cup final.
"They have injuries and suspensions so hopefully things like that can work in our favour," said McGeady.
"We'd like to be in their position, still being in all competitions."
The Ibrox club's pursuit of four trophies has left them facing a backlog of fixtures, with the SPL yet to shoehorn outstanding matches against St Mirren and Motherwell into the calendar.
Rangers could yet request an extension to the campaign if they reach the Uefa Cup final but McGeady sees no reason why special dispensation should be granted.
"I wouldn't be too keen on that to be honest with you," he said.
"I wouldn't say it's the SPL's fault but I don't think the fact so many games have been called off is a reason for the season to go on.
"Obviously, Rangers have got an awful lot of games but you have to squeeze them in over a short space of time."
Celtic were forced to play an Old Firm fixture three days after booking their place in the 2003 Uefa Cup final and McGeady insisted: "The season's the season and I don't think they can do it any other way."
Sunday's game at Celtic Park will provide McGeady with the opportunity to rekindle his rivalry with Rangers striker Nacho Novo.
McGeady and Novo clashed when the sides last met
The pair clashed at the full-time whistle when the sides met last week, with Novo later claiming he had the Celtic man 'in his pocket'.
McGeady retaliated when picking up SPFA awards for Player and Young Player of the Year on Sunday, quipping: "I managed to climb out of Nacho's pocket twice to win."
He added: "I just go out and play football and do the talking on the pitch.
"It was just a bit of banter, one of those things in football. He made a comment earlier in the week and I thought I'd say something back.
"I didn't think he would come out and say something like that to the press.
"It's no big deal and hopefully he took it in good humour."
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