Celtic icon Sir Kenny Dalglish is “interested” in seeing whether Rangers line up with James Tavernier or Nathan Patterson in this afternoon’s Scottish Cup Old Firm clash – and thinks his old side could look to “exploit” Patterson if he is given the nod.
The teen has been an able deputy for Tavernier in recent weeks with the Ibrox skipper sidelined through injury, but Gerrard admitted in his press conference on Friday that the 17-goal full-back could return this afternoon.
Dalglish believes interim Celtic boss John Kennedy could deploy James Forrest or Moi Elyounoussi up against Patterson if Tavernier fails to prove his fitness for Rangers ahead of this afternoon’s fourth-round tie.
“I’ll also be interested to see if James Tavernier or Nathan Patterson are selected,” Dalglish said talking to the Sunday Post. “Ideally, Steven will want his captain in the starting line-up, but only if he feels ready for the game.
“If he doesn’t, then Nathan is a very capable young man, and there will be no reservations about playing him from the start. This fixture will not faze him.
“But if the Scotsman is in from the first whistle, perhaps Celtic will see that as an area to exploit.
“John and his coaching staff might think there could be mileage in putting someone, such as Forrest or Moi Elyounoussi, up against Nathan.
“It all makes for an interesting afternoon, and I can’t wait to see both starting line-ups.
“I think all television viewers should strap themselves in, as this could go to penalties.
“Who will win? Well, it’s anyone’s guess after that.”
Rangers or Celtic will go on to face St. Johnstone next weekend in the quarter-finals as both look to get their hands on the season’s final piece of silverware.
In other news, BILD have positive news about Julian Nagelsmann that will surely interest Tottenham fans
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