It was all late drama last weekend in the Scottish Premiership when Celtic scored an injury-time winner against Dundee United. Rangers, on the other hand, suffered a massive setback following a last-ditch equalizer from the Staggies and the Hoops, therefore, have a golden opportunity to get ahead of their bitter rivals by securing all three points in the upcoming Old Firm derby.
Although the Bhoys must be aiming for the top of the table spot, a few key absentees would keep the options limited across the pitch. Ange Postecoglou has managed to build a squad full of depth as well as quality and this enticing Wednesday night encounter might play a massive role in deciding the outcome of the league.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Rangers
Defence
After months of catastrophe between the sticks, the Celts have finally restored stability by roping in veteran Joe Hart back in the summer window. The former England ‘number 1’ has regained his lost charm and is delivering top-notch performances week in week out. His presence in goal would put the hosts in the driver’s seat against Rangers.
Josip Juranovic should get the nod over Anthony Ralston as the right fullback due to his ability to balance the game between attack and defence. The central defensive pairing of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Carl Starfelt must remain unaltered, whereas Greg Taylor is likely to return down the left replacing Liam Scales.
Midfield
While David Turnbull continues his recovery from a hamstring strain, Postecoglou might still field a strong midfield lineup this midweek. He ruled skipper Callum McGregor out for weeks in the aftermath of a face injury in their Scottish Cup tie versus Alloa Athletic, however, the versatile Scotsman might script a shock return as predicted by former Celtic centre-forward Frank McAvennie.
Moreover, the gaffer is working hard to make sure both Tom Rogic and Daizen Maeda are flown back before the Glasgow derby. They are currently representing Australia and Japan respectively but might still get involved upon timely arrival. Having said that, the manager should bank on new signing Matt O’Riley in case Rogic finds himself exhausted for a starting role. Reo Hatate, the other winter recruit, has been exquisite in the middle of the park and is expected to retain his place versus the Old Firm rivals. Nir Bitton is suspended after receiving a marching order on Saturday evening, also they might not have Yosuke Ideguchi back in action following an injury in the Cup contest.
Attack
The absence of Kyogo Furuhashi is a massive blow for the Hoops who is still sidelined due to an ongoing hamstring problem. Amid the uncertainties over Maeda’s availability from the start, Giorgos Giakoumakis might lead the line given his physicality and poaching traits. Liel Abada must keep his place down the right and the flair of Filipe Jota should be witnessed from the left-hand flank. James Forrest is also there to make an impact as a ‘super sub’.
