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New Celtic signing Mohamed Elyounoussi ready to face Rangers

Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images
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Mohamed Elyounoussi, signed on loan from Southampton, is looking forward to the prospect of playing for Celtic against Rangers at Ibrox this afternoon.

Manchester City's English defender Kyle Walker (R) vies for the ball with Basel's Norwegian midfielder Mohamed Elyounoussi (L)  during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg...

Newly-signed Celtic attacker Mohamed Elyounoussi has told the club’s official website that he is ready to play against Rangers at Ibrox in the Old Firm derby today.

The 25-year-old, who can operate as a forward or as a winger, has only just signed for Celtic on a season-long loan deal from Premier League outfit Southampton.

The Norway international has said that he is ready to face the Bhoys’ bitter Old Firm rivals Rangers in the Scottish Premiership this afternoon.

Elyounoussi told Celtic’s official website: “It’s a huge game, and one of the biggest derbies in Europe. So I’m looking forward to either being part of it or watching it.

“I’ve just finished my first training session, so that would be the gaffer’s decision whether I’m part of the squad or not.

“It would be a huge challenge to come in here and be part of that straight away, but I’m looking forward to the whole experience.”

Mohamed Elyounoussi of Southampton (R) battles with Aymeric Laporte (C) and Vincent Kompany of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Manchester City at...

Good option on the substitutes’ bench

It is unlikely that Celtic manager Neil Lennon will include Elyounoussi in the starting lineup against Rangers.

After all, the Norwegian has only just made the move to the Hoops, and he has not had enough time to know the team.

Moreover, James Forrest and Mikey Johnston are in good form at the moment, and it is very likely that they will be the two wingers against Rangers this afternoon.

Elyounoussi will be a good option to have on the substitutes’ bench for Celtic.

Mohamed Elyounoussi of FC Basel celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-1 during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 Second Leg match between Manchester City and FC Basel at Etihad...