Celtic must be in the driver’s seat against Rangers for the season’s first Old Firm derby at Ibrox. The Gers would be without an array of first-team stars as well as gaffer Steven Gerrard following a coronavirus outbreak and the Hoops, humiliated all throughout the previous campaign, must aim for revenge on Sunday lunchtime.
Both the Glasgow giants cemented a Europa League berth on Thursday night. Although the Bears settled for a stalemate to progress on aggregate, the Bhoys survived despite enduring a 2-1 defeat thanks to their 2-0 home win in the first leg. With the group stage fixtures still to be determined, it’s time to reignite the bitter rivalry over the weekend.
Rangers vs Celtic Tactical Preview
Talking Tactics
Rangers
The absence of key individuals is a massive setback, whereas the frailty at the back remains a major concern considering Celtic’s attacking, free-flowing brand of football under Ange Postecoglou. Connor Goldson is nowhere close to his earlier self and must raise his standard to contain Kyogo Furuhashi and Odsonne Edouard. The midfield seems stable, but the lack of pace in the centre of the pitch might see them tweaking the setup to 4-5-1 or 4-4-2 instead of the usual 4-3-3.
Celtic
The Hoops, on the other hand, are way more flexible than before. Their relentless runs, aggression and pressing game would be difficult to handle, however, the vulnerability in deep defence might prove costly against the likes of Kemar Roofe and Alfredo Morelos. Callum McGregor must operate as a deep-lying playmaker, marshall the backline and restrict his runs to prevent quick counter-attacks.
Team News
Rangers
Allan McGregor, Jon McLaughlin, James Tavernier, Calvin Bassey, Scott Wright and Ryan Kent are in self-isolation due to Covid-19. Ryan Jack is still nursing his long-term calf problem and a heart issue detected during pre-season has sidelined Nnamdi Ofoborh for the time being. Fashion Sakala has not been involved of late and might undergo a late fitness test to be in contention for the weekend contest.
Rangers Predicted XI
Robby McCrorie; Nathan Patterson, Connor Goldson, Filip Helander, Borna Barisic; Steven Davis, Glen Kamara, Joe Aribo; Kemar Roofe, Ianis Hagi, Alfredo Morelos.
Celtic
Christopher Jullien is still recovering from a serious knee injury. Teenage sensation Karamoko Dembele has an ankle strain and the nightmare continues for Michael Johnston who is now out of action with a hamstring injury.
Celtic Predicted XI
Joe Hart; Anthony Ralston, Stephen Welsh, Carl Starfelt, Adam Montgomery; Callum McGregor, Ryan Christie, David Turnbull; Liel Abada, Kyogo Furuhashi, Odsonne Edouard.
Key Men
Rangers
The preparation might have been hampered by Covid Issues, but the presence of Alfredo Morelos high up the pitch would pose a serious threat in Celtic defence. The midfield trio of Glen Kamara, Joe Aribo and veteran Steven Davis must dominate the game exhibiting their understanding and chemistry.
Celtic
The club have made two astounding signings in Liel Abada and Furuhashi. The latter, in particular, is enjoying a majestic form with 7 goals in 8 outings across competitions. The pace and flair of Abada down the right would create menace in the Gers’ defensive third. Also, the poaching traits of Edouard might make a difference in this electrifying encounter.
Odds
The bookies have put Rangers at 8/5 to emerge as the winners. The draw has been listed as 5/2, whereas the Bhoys have been backed at 3/2 to script a triumph.
