Match

Celtic predicted XI vs Rangers as Brendan Rodgers hands debut to new signing

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It’s the first Glasgow derby of the season as Celtic make the short trip to face Rangers.

Both sides crashed out of the Champions League in midweek and will hope to get their seasons back on track with a win against their rivals.

Despite the loss to Kairat Almaty, Celtic have still had a much better season and Brendan Rodgers has the much stronger squad to select from.

Celtic vs Rangers is one of world football’s greatest rivalries and there is a chance for players to make themselves heroes.

With that, 67 Hail Hail predicts how the Bhoys will line up for the Glasgow derby clash.

Rangers and Celtic players line up before the game at Ibrox
Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images

Brendan Rodgers hands Celtic debut to Michel-Ange Balikwisha

Rodgers and Celtic were handed a timely boost by the arrival of two signings this week.

Michel-Ange Balikwisha joined from Royal Antwerp on a five-year deal before Argentine defender Marcelo Saracchi completed his loan move from Boca Juniors.

Balikwisha knows the importance of the Glasgow derby and given the Hoops’ lack of options out wide, will come straight into the side to try to make an immediate impact.

Saracchi will have to settle for a place on the bench but one man who is unlikely to join him is Adam Idah as his move to Swansea City hangs in the balance.

Celtic predicted XI to face Rangers

The back four speaks for itself with Kasper Schmeichel in goal and then Anthony Ralston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales and Kieran Tierney.

Moving into the midfield, there will be a slight change as Reo Hatate and Callum McGregor hold down two of the three positions. Then, Arne Engels comes in to play alongside them, allowing Benjamin Nygren to start on the right wing.

The Celtic predicted XI to face Rangers
The Celtic predicted XI to face Rangers Credit: GRV Media lineup tool

New signing Balikwisha can then play off the left wing, which leaves Daizen Maeda up top to lead the line at Ibrox.