The coronavirus outbreak in Rangers camp handed Celtic a massive advantage ahead of locking horns for the season’s first Old Firm derby at Ibrox. The decimated Gers succeeded in grabbing a place in the Europa League group stages defeating (on 1-0 aggregate) Alashkert, but their supremacy of 2020-21 season has not been continued following a league defeat against Dundee United as well as Malmo in the Champions League qualifiers.
Having said that, they are still enjoying a winning streak at home in the Premiership and the return of the fans must motivate them to step up the game overcoming limitations. Steven Gerrard is likely to remain in self-isolation, so are Allan McGregor, Jon McLaughlin, Calvin Bassey, James Tavernier, Ryan Kent and Scott Wright whose unavailability would be a massive blow considering the significance of this electrifying encounter. While there has been speculation that at least 4-5 players who are currently isolating might be back, we are not considering that when writing this.
Predicted 4-3-3 Rangers Lineup To Face Celtic
Defence
Robby McCrorie utilised the opportunity against Alashkert in the absence of both McGregor and McLaughlin. The youngster must aim for another clean-sheet while featuring between the sticks on Sunday lunchtime.
Nathan Patterson enjoyed a blistering spell last season during Tavernier’s injury absence and it’s time for the teenager to deliver again from the right-hand side of Rangers’ defence. Connor Goldson has been a shadow of his earlier self and the pressure, therefore, would be on Filip Helander who must partner the Englishman in the heart of the backline. Left-back Borna Barisic is likely to threaten the Bhoys with his overlapping runs, crosses, cut insides and set-piece traits.
Midfield
The Bears have a pretty stable midfield who are delivering week in week out since the previous term. 36-year-old Steven Davis is still irreplaceable in the centre of the pitch, while the hosts would miss the services of still-injured Ryan Jack who has been a prominent figure in the recent Old Firm derbies. Joe Aribo has been excellent with his work ethic, versatility and creative spark, whereas the mastery of Glen Kamara should see Rangers controlling the midfield game irrespective of Celtic’s free-flowing football. Scott Arfield and John Lundstram might get involved at some stage if the situation demands.
Attack
With both Ryan Kent (injury and not covid?) and Scott Wright set to miss the tie, the influence of Ianis Hagi would be crucial down the right-hand flank. Fashion Sakala is sidelined with a groin strain and the gaffer might line up Kemar Roofe in a wide attacking role given his flexibility across the frontline. Alfredo Morelos must lead the line and the expectations from him would be sky high to make a difference in this high-profile fixture.
