Jeremy Toljan could turn Celtic spell around with one inspired display

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Jeremy Toljan is in contention to start the next Old Firm game despite enduring a difficult spell with Celtic.

For everyone who felt that Celtic had addressed their right-back problems during the January transfer window, Jeremy Toljan’s loan spell has definitely been a disappointment so far.

Despite a poor time with Borussia Dortmund, Toljan’s arrival appeared to be a coup for the Hoops, with neither Mikael Lustig or Cristian Gamboa impressing in the role.

Unfortunately, the 24-year-old has been unable to show the form that convinced Dortmund to sign him from Hoffenheim, and there may not be many tears shed if he returns to his parent club in the summer without Celtic making an attempt to keep him for longer.

Nevertheless, it appears more than likely that Toljan could get the nod to keep his starting spot for Celtic this weekend. And if that proves to be the case, then the youngster should view Sunday as the chance he needs to turn his Parkhead spell around in one game.

Celtic have the chance to put one hand on the Scottish Premiership title this weekend – if that hand is not already tightly gripped on the trophy – as a victory against Rangers will take them 13 points clear of Steven Gerrard’s men.

It goes without saying that it is an important fixture for both sides. A Rangers win would still not necessarily set up a title race, but Celtic will still be desperate to make up for the mistakes they made back in December’s meeting between the two.

Toljan potentially has one of the tougher tasks ahead of him, with Ryan Kent looking to replicate his display at Ibrox when he gave Lustig a torrid afternoon.

Should Toljan keep Kent quiet, Rangers will struggle a lot more. The Liverpool loanee is one of the players that Gerrard’s men look to to provide a moment of inspiration when things are not going to plan. Stop Kent playing and the Bhoys’ chances of winning increase.

And the confidence that Toljan should take from that kind of performance could make a big difference heading into the final weeks of the season.

Signing a right-back looks set to be a priority for the Celtic boss once again in the summer. But Toljan has the ideal chance to win his doubters over and perhaps add his name to the Hoops’ transfer window wishlist with one performance this weekend.