Celtic and Rangers will renew hostilities in the Scottish League Cup semi-final after they were paired together in Saturday’s draw.

The Old Firm derby has been missing from the regular league calendar since Rangers were demoted to the fourth tier of Scottish football three years ago.

Celtic thrashed Partick Thistle 6-0 on Wednesday to earn their last four spot, some 24 hours after Rangers overcame St Johnstone 1-0 at Ibrox.

The other semi-final pits Dundee United against Aberdeen, but there was no doubting the star attraction as both managers in Glasgow’s great divide began looking forward to the tussle.

“I haven’t been at an Old Firm game before but I am looking forward to experiencing it,” Celtic boss Deila declared.

The Norwegian did not pull any punches when asked if he preferred Championship side Rangers to the two Premiership clubs left standing.

He added: “Yes, it is no problem for me. There were three good teams there and I think we didn’t get the best one.”

Ally McCoist meanwhile is relishing the clash against city rivals Celtic, but was keen to play down his team’s chances.

“I’m delighted with the draw and judging by the reaction from the boys in the dressing room they’re happier than me,” McCoist said.

“I don’t think there’s any doubt Celtic will start as favourites. Of course they will.”

The teams have not met since April 2012 but that will all change when they lock horns at Hampden Park in January.