Celtic predicted XI vs Rangers as Brendan Rodgers goes all out for cup final glory

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Celtic head into the Premier Sports Cup final knowing they can claim the first available silverware of the season against arch-rivals Rangers.

The Bhoys come into this one after a draw in Zagreb, which has set them up for an exciting final two Champions League fixtures with qualification still in sight.

Meanwhile, their rivals recorded a point against Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday evening, leaving them with two days less preparation for Sunday’s showdown at Hampden.

Now, the Premier Sports Cup becomes the main priority, with build-up reaching fever pitch ahead of the second Glasgow Derby of the season.

Earlier in the campaign, Celtic thumped Rangers at Parkhead to lay down an early marker in the Scottish Premiership. Will their rivals put up more of a fight on this occasion? It remains to be seen.

Without further ado, 67 Hail Hail take a stab at what Brendan Rodgers‘ line-up could look like on Sunday afternoon.

Potential Celtic starting XI vs Rangers

Starting with an obvious choice, Kasper Schmeichel comes in between the sticks and will hope to add a 16th clean sheet since joining the Bhoys in the summer.

The Denmark international has been in superb form since moving north of the border, so expect the veteran to command his box and pull off some show-stopping saves.

Moving on, Alistair Johnston gets the nod at right-back despite some recent worries over his availability due to being withdrawn against Zagreb on Tuesday night.

Cameron Carter-Vickers takes up the role of lead general in central defence, while Auston Trusty fills the left-hand side berth ahead of Liam Scales despite both showing credentials to earn a start.

Left-back is possibly the hardest area to make a conclusion on. However, Greg Taylor will just pip Alex Valle due to his experience of the occasion.

Callum McGregor brings style and substance to the engine room and his presence is set to be vital amid the Bhoys’ desire to control the midfield battle. Reo Hatate has been up and down in recent weeks, but is expected to commence proceedings and offer a creative foil for the forward line.

Paulo Bernardo has put in some solid displays this season and would be worthy value for a start. Despite this, Arne Engels comes in as a controversial prediction to start. Why? Celtic have paid the big bucks for his services and his energetic mode of operation may suit tomorrow’s encounter.

Rounding off, Nicolas Kuhn and Daizen Maeda are destined to occupy either flank over other potential options. Kyogo Furuhashi leads the line and will hope to extend his excellent derby record.

Your predicted XI in full is as follows: Schmeichel, Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Taylor, McGregor, Hatate, Engels, Kuhn, Maeda, Kyogo.