Old Firm derbies are always a must-win game for both the sides but for the sake of competition in the Premiership; it’s pretty much a must win game for Steven Gerrard’s men as they trail Celtic by 10 points.
However, Rangers would be going in this game on a poor run of form as the away side have won just twice in their last five games. The other three have been draws, but that isn’t good enough when you are challenging for the title. This international break would have given a lot of time to Gerrard to think about this upcoming fixture, and a poor result at Celtic Park can put even more pressure on him regarding his position at the club. Therefore the stakes are very high for the Gers going into this tough game.
Team News
The Bears don’t have any major injury concerns. Jamie Murphy and Graham Dorrans are expected to miss out. Scott Arfield has started training, but he is likely to be assessed closer to the match day.
Rangers Predicted Lineup Vs. Celtic
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Allan McGregor is expected to start in goal for the away side. Gerrard is likely to go in with the centre back pairing of Joe Worrall and Connor Goldson. The duo looks solid on occasions, but both of them seem to have a mistake or two in their game. They need to really concentrate for the full 90 against a dynamic Celtic side who would be keen on revenge after the last derby loss.
Andy Halliday should get the nod ahead of Borna Barisic as the left back. James Tavernier should be in his usual right-back role.
Midfield
Ross McCrorie has missed out on plenty of games in the past two months since the emergence of Glen Kamara. However, we believe Gerrard needs to bring in this tenacious midfielder in the starting eleven for this game. Moreover, Rangers have never lost a game in the league and domestic cup competitions when the Scotsman has started. He should play in the deepest role in midfield.
Arfield’s fitness is a concern, so we are not going with him in midfield. Glen Kamara and Ryan Jack should be the other central midfielders. Ryan Kent is expected to start on the left flank, and Daniel Candeias should occupy the right side.
Attack
Alfredo Morelos’ overall form has been impressive, but he needs to bring his ‘A game’ in this tough tie. There is no doubt that the Celtic players would try to rough him up. Therefore the Colombian will need to stay within his lane to play the full 90.
