If Celtic manages to beat Rangers tomorrow, they will be pretty much guaranteed another Premiership title. The Hoops currently sit 10 points clear on the top of the table and Rangers would be keen to cut down the gap to seven. Even if the Bears don’t go on to win the title, having the bragging rights over their local rivals would give them hope for the next season.
Brendan Rodgers’ departure hasn’t affected Celtic much, and Neil Lennon has fit in seamlessly at the club. The manager negated some tough fixtures to begin with, and he would be keen to get one over their Glaswegian rivals which will go a long way in securing Lennon’s position permanently at Celtic Park. On the other hand, if Steven Gerrard’s side gets a drubbing, the pressure could seriously mount on the rookie manager.
Team News
Celtic
Kieran Tierney might have missed the international games for his country, but he is expected to be fit in time for this clash. Ryan Christie and Olivier Ntcham are likely to miss out. Tom Rogic is back in training, but he is unlikely to play a part in this game. Eboue Kouassi and Daniel Arzani are long term absentees. Nir Bitton is expected to go through a late fitness test.
Rangers
Borna Barisic is likely to miss out due to the hamstring injury which he picked up during international duty. Scott Arfield also missed out for Canada but he could be fit in time before the game. Jamie Murphy and Graham Dorrans are long term absentees.
Predicted Lineups
Celtic
Bain; Benkovic, Boyata, Lustig, Tierney; Brown, McGregor, Forrest, Burke, Sinclair; Edouard
Rangers
McGregor; Worrall, Goldson, Tavernier, Halliday; McCrorie, Jack, Kamara, Candeias, Kent; Morelos
Key Men
Celtic
Kieran Tierney’s comeback is a massive boost for the Hoops, and he can be a game changer down the left given Tavernier’s defensive vulnerabilities. Odsonne Edouard’s form has been slightly patchy, but he can be the real difference maker for his side given his physical presence and pace.
Rangers
Goldson and Worrall often seem to have a lapse in communication, and if they want to keep Celtic quiet, then the duo needs to be decisive in their defending. Ryan Kent from the left can cause a lot of trouble to either of Jeremy Toljan or Mikael Lustig, and Gerrard should look to exploit Celtic’s weakness at the right back spot. Alfredo Morelos is always going to be the key men, but he can change the game for both the sides by scoring goals or by getting sent off.
Odds
Celtic Win: 3/4
Rangers Win: 18/5
Draw: 14/5
