Rangers will host Celtic in the first Old Firm derby of the season this weekend. Steven Gerrard’s men would be keen to prove that there has been a power shift in Glasgow as they bid to stop Celtic’s domination in Scottish football. The Gers showed some impressive signs last season in all the derby games and this time Rangers will be keen to smash Celtic out of the park.
Both the teams have made it to Europe even though Celtic had to be satisfied with Europa League when they could have made it to the Champions League. Celtic had a more relaxed game at the weekend as they ran away 6-1 winners against AIK on aggregate. Rangers were stretched to the limit, but they prevailed by a late goal from Morelos which was the only goal in the 180 minutes of football again Legia Warsaw.
Team News: Jamie Murphy has started training, but he is yet to become match fit so he will miss out. Apart from that, Gerrard would be glad that he will have a strong squad to choose from.
Rangers predicted Lineup Vs Celtic
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Allan McGregor is a nailed on start in goal for the Gers. Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic are likely to continue as the centre back pairing. The duo didn’t concede against Polish heavyweights in 180 minutes of football, and that would give the manager a lot of confidence going into this game.
James Tavernier is an obvious pick as the right back. Gerrard gave Borna Barisic the chance to start in the big game against Warsaw, and the Croatian did well. We expect him to start over Jon Flanagan at left-back.
Midfield
Steven Davis’ smart one-touch passing and movement from deep areas have made Rangers comfortable in possession. He will start in midfield once again. Ryan Jack is the engine room of this Gerrard side, and he too should start in the middle. Joe Aribo is likely to get his first taste of the Old Firm derby this weekend.
Attack
Jordan Jones has looked explosive in the last few games, and he was the difference-maker in the playoff tie as he found Morelos perfectly with a cross. He has traditionally started on the left, but we would like to see Gerrard give him a go from the right flank. Celtic’s left-back seems to be a significant weakness and Gerrard can exploit that with Jones and Tavernier playing from that side.
Therefore Scott Arfield should shift to the left. Sheyi Ojo has looked a bit off-colour in the last few games, and he could miss out. Alfredo Morelos is expected to lead the line in this big clash.
