Scottish star and passionate supporter took his chance to have a cheeky dig at Ally McCoist. Higgins, 49, has been laser-focused on the , where he is , heading into their second session.

While snooker is a sport which requires absolute focus without distraction, the Scot still found a moment of brain space to mock close friend and Rangers legend, McCoist. During a light-hearted moment at the Crucible, Higgins and McCoist spoke to each other on television, with TNT commentator Darren Fletcher. The latter claimed that he and McCoist were able to pot Dennis Taylor's iconic black ball shot, in a sketch which, obviously, took place off camera. While suggesting that McCoist used to fluff his lines in front of goal all the time, Higgins claimed he did not believe it.

Fletcher said: "We both had a go at Dennis's winning black, and would it surprise you at all to know that Ally..." Higgins interrupted and said: "I've watched him enough at the Rangers over the years!".

McCoist then replied: "We both got it; the worrying thing is we used Jimmy [White's] cue. I couldn't believe how light his cue was."

Higgins firmly displayed his allegiance to Celtic by ensuring that he had a moment to mock McCoist, who may still be coming to terms with the Gers' recent Europa League exit to Athletic Bilbao. The World No.3 then re-focused his attention to McCoist, to ask about Celtic's current managerial situation. With former Bhoys manager Ange Postecoglou struggling at Tottenham Hotspur, the snooker star was convinced that Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is being eyed by the North Londoners.

Higgins asked: "I've just seen reports that [Daniel] Levy is trying to get Brendan Rodgers to go to Tottenham Hotspur - is there any truth in that rumour?". McCoist replied: "John, I'll be honest with you mate, I'm trying to get him to go anywhere!".

It has so far been a difficult tournament for Higgins, who entered the Crucible while coming to terms with heartbreak at home. After beating Joe O'Connor 10-7 in his first-round match, Higgins opened up about his father-in-law, who recently suffered a heart attack.

Higgins was not expected to compete in Sheffield after the Wishaw native missed several annual pre-tournament events, including the Champions Dinner and Green Carpet ceremony. After tearing up while speaking to the BBC, Higgins said: "That was the most emotional I have ever been today.

"I left my wife and I was in tears. Obviously my father-in-law wasn't great. I was sitting having dinner with my boy last night and I was thinking about sitting here with my dad 25 years ago. I was drained today.

"I had a couple of hours sleep and I came out tonight and felt a lot better and played a lot better. I am still so proud that I am still playing at a good level at this age."