Celtic-Rangers: Team News Update

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Post on Jan 03, 2025

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Celtic-Rangers: Team News Update & Predicted Lineups

The Old Firm derby is upon us again, and the anticipation is palpable! Celtic and Rangers are set to clash once more in a fixture that always promises fireworks, both on and off the pitch. This article provides the latest team news, predicted lineups, and key injury updates for both sides heading into this highly anticipated match.

Celtic Team News

Celtic manager, Brendan Rodgers, will be sweating over a few key players ahead of this crucial match. Team news is always subject to last-minute changes, but here's what we know so far:

Injury Concerns:

• Cameron Carter-Vickers: The central defender is a major doubt after picking up a knock in the midweek game. His presence in the starting XI would be a huge boost for Celtic's defensive solidity. His absence could see Stephen Welsh or even a shift in formation to accommodate the loss.
• Reo Hatate: Hatate's fitness is also a question mark. His creativity in midfield is vital for Celtic's attacking fluidity. Should he be ruled out, expect Matt O'Riley to step up his game or a potential shift in midfield personnel.
• Kyogo Furuhashi: The striker's status is crucial. His goal-scoring prowess is essential to Celtic's attacking threat. Any setback could see Oh Hyeon-gyu leading the line.

Potential Return:

• David Turnbull: The midfielder's return from injury would be a welcome boost for Celtic's midfield options, potentially adding more dynamism and creativity.

Rangers Team News

Across the city, Michael Beale faces his own selection dilemmas. The Rangers camp is also grappling with several injury concerns and tactical decisions.

Injury Concerns:

• John Lundstram: The midfielder's absence would be felt heavily in the middle of the park, impacting Rangers' ability to control the game. His replacement might depend on Beale's tactical approach, possibly seeing Nicolas Raskin taking on more responsibility.
• Ryan Kent: Kent's pace and dribbling ability on the wing are crucial for Rangers' attacking play. Should he miss out, Rabbi Matondo or Fashion Sakala will likely vie for a starting position.
• Kemar Roofe: Roofe's availability remains uncertain. His clinical finishing ability is always an asset for Rangers. If unavailable, Alfredo Morelos could lead the line.

Potential Return:

• Ben Davies: The defender's potential return would strengthen Rangers' backline significantly. His experience and defensive capabilities would be vital against Celtic's potent attack.

Predicted Lineups

These are just predictions based on the currently available information and could change:

Celtic (4-3-3): Joe Hart; Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers (or Stephen Welsh), Carl Starfelt, Greg Taylor; Callum McGregor, Matt O'Riley, Aaron Mooy; Liel Abada, Kyogo Furuhashi (or Oh Hyeon-gyu), Daizen Maeda

Rangers (4-3-3): Allan McGregor; James Tavernier, Connor Goldson, Ben Davies (or John Souttar), Borna Barisic; Glen Kamara, John Lundstram (or Nicolas Raskin), Scott Arfield; Todd Cantwell, Alfredo Morelos (or Kemar Roofe), Ryan Kent (or Rabbi Matondo)

Key Battles to Watch

The game will likely hinge on several key battles:

• McGregor vs. Kamara: A midfield duel between two experienced and tactically astute players.
• Kyogo Furuhashi (or Oh Hyeon-gyu) vs. Goldson/Davies: The striker's ability to find space and convert chances against Rangers' defense will be crucial.
• Abada/Maeda vs. Tavernier/Barisic: The wingers' pace and ability to exploit space on the flanks will be key.

This Old Firm derby promises to be a thrilling encounter. Stay tuned for further updates as the match day approaches. Remember to check official team news releases closer to kickoff for the most accurate information. Good luck to both teams!