Although Rangers have already conquered the coveted Premiership crown, Celtic have decided not to give their bitter rivals a guard of honour on Sunday lunchtime. This has sparked controversy for obvious reasons and the Gers, therefore, would be motivated to humiliate the hosts like they have done so far this season in other meetings.
Rangers, meanwhile, suffered a disappointing Europa League Round of 16 exit following a home defeat against Slavia Praha. This must have been an occasion to cherish for the Hoops who underwent a dreadful campaign across competitions. Having said that, they have an opportunity to shatter the Bears’ unbeaten league run and make this apparent dead rubber derby a relevant one.
Talking Tactics
Celtic
Rangers
Rangers, on the other hand, have conceded only 9 league goals in 32 outings. Not only have they dominated possession in the middle of the park, but also utilized the width of the pitch to widen the space in the deep defensive lines. Their pressing has been systematic and the co-ordination all over the field enabled them to grind out results in close contests all throughout the season.
Team News
Celtic
Celtic would be without Christopher Jullien who is still recovering from a knee injury. Greg Taylor was forced to leave the pitch early in their defeat against Ross County but is expected to return for the Old Firm derby.
Celtic Predicted XI
Scott Bain; Jonjoe Kenny, Stephen Welsh, Kristoffer Ajer, Greg Taylor; Scott Brown, James Forrest, Callum McGregor, David Turnbull; Mohamed Elyounoussi, Odsonne Edouard.
Rangers
Skipper James Tavernier might not make it against the Bhoys whereas Nathan Patterson, the deputy right fullback, remains a doubt after suffering a calf injury against Slavia Praha. Filip Helander [knock] remained an unused sub but might reclaim his central defensive status on Sunday afternoon. Ryan Jack, back in training, should find a place in the matchday squad.
Rangers Predicted XI
Allan McGregor; Leon Balogun, Connor Goldson, Filip Helander, Borna Barisic; Steven Davis, Glen Kamara, Joe Aribo; Ianis Hagi, Ryan Kent, Alfredo Morelos.
Key Men
Celtic
The Hoops will highly rely on Odsonne Edouard to find the net who has been in an astounding form of late. David Turnbull has been their shining light in a dire season, also the antics of Scott Brown might lead to fists and fights as we have seen over the years.
Rangers
The pace, power and directness of Ryan Kent would trouble the Hoops’ inexperienced backline. Alfredo Morelos must not lose his head under provocation and the relentless runs of Joe Aribo would be crucial in terms of creating goal-scoring opportunities in and around the Celtic box.
Odds
The bookies have put both Celtic and Rangers at 13/8 to emerge as the winners. The draw has been listed as 23/10 for this high-voltage outing.
