Ange Postecoglou will be forced into a few changes on Wednesday night as Celtic play host to Rangers at Parkhead. It is a crucial Old Firm clash, with just two points separating the Glasgow clubs at the top of the table.
The Hoops come into the game after reducing the gap to just two points. Liel Abada’s late goal saw Celtic beat Dundee United 1-0, despite Nir Bitton receiving a second yellow. Rangers drew 3-3 with Ross County at Dingwall.
Six players are expected to be missing from the Old Firm clash – even with the returns of Callum McGregor and Daizen Maeda. David Turnbull, Kyogo, Tom Rogic, Bitton, Albian Ajeti and Yosuke Ideguchi are all sidelined.
McGregor is likely to play, given the importance of the Celtic skipper and that Bitton is now suspended for the Glasgow derby. Postecoglou is likely to make three changes to the side that took on Dundee United on Saturday.
Three changes but six missing: Predicted Celtic side to face Rangers
McGregor is the most-likely change in midfield, partnering Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley. In defence, the inexperienced Liam Scales is likely to drop out – with Croatia international Josip Juranovic playing at left-back.
That added quality and experience is crucial in a match like this. Portuguese star and Celtic favourite Jota made a substitute appearance on Saturday and he could start given the pivotal nature of the game.
Abada’s goal might give him the edge over James Forrest, meaning a front three of Jota, Abada and Giorgos Giakoumakis. So, three changes – in come McGregor, Jota and Juranovic for Bitton, Scales and Forrest.
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