Celtic and Rangers are set to face off in a Premier Sports Cup semi-final this Sunday at Hampden Park in Glasgow.
Both sides have undergone a change in the dugout since they last met, with Martin O’Neill and Danny Rohl replacing Brendan Rodgers and Russell Martin respectively.
It’s a reflection of how poorly the Old Firm clubs have started the season; the Bhoys sit second in the Scottish Premiership table, nine points behind leaders Hearts, while the Gers are 14 points adrift in fourth place.
Celtic team news
Celtic come into the fixture grappling with several injury issues. Cameron Carter-Vickers continues to be sidelined by an Achilles injury, keeping him out for an estimated three to five months. Meanwhile, Jota is still in the process of recovering from an ACL injury sustained in May, with hopes of returning sometime in 2026.
Alistair Johnston has recently suffered a setback with a hamstring strain, which he picked up during last week’s victory over Sturm Graz, ruling him out of contention against Rangers.
On a brighter note, Daizen Maeda is expected to spearhead the attack after featuring as a substitute for the final 25 minutes of Celtic’s 4-0 win over Falkirk. Kelechi Iheanacho, who missed the Falkirk game due to a minor hamstring problem, is reportedly in good shape and will be evaluated ahead of kickoff. Additionally, Kieran Tierney is scheduled to resume training on Saturday and is hopeful to be available after recovering from a groin issue.
Leading the line on the right wing will be James Forrest, while Sebastian Tounekti is confirmed on the opposite flank, with Johnny Kenny dropping out after his brace against Falkirk. Benjamin Nygren, who played a pivotal role in midfield with a more direct style against Falkirk, is expected to continue in that role.
Celtic predicted lineup
Possible Celtic starting XI: Schmeichel; Donovan, Trusty, Scales, Tierney; Engels, McGregor; Forrest, Nygren, Tounekti; Kenny
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 2pm BST on Sunday, 2nd November.
How to watch Celtic vs Rangers?
Fans in the UK will be able to catch the Premier Sports Cup semi-final live on Premier Sports 1.
Read – Amorim makes Man Utd transfer admission ahead of January
See Also – Power Rankings as Premier League high-flyers surge in
