Celtic face Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup, with a place in the final at stake.
It’s a repeat of the 2024 final where the Hoops emerged victorious on penalties, but both sides are in very different circumstances.
Martin O’Neill and Danny Rohl are both in the respective dugouts, however, the 73-year-old has plenty of experience in Glasgow derbies.
O’Neill recalled the excitement of facing Rangers during his pre-match conference, albeit 20 years ago, and will have plenty to ponder ahead of the big one at Hampden Park.
His team selection will be very interesting to see after O’Neill’s injury update confirmed that Kieran Tierney could be a doubt, while Daizen Maeda is also back in the fray.
Here, 67 Hail Hail predicts what the starting XI could look like at 2:00PM on Sunday.
- READ MORE: ScotRail provide update for Celtic fans ahead of Premier Sports Cup semi-final vs Rangers
Martin O’Neill sticks with Johnny Kenny over Daizen Maeda
The biggest dilemma for the Celtic interim boss will be deciding between Johnny Kenny and Maeda.
Kenny bagged a brace in the Hoops’ 4-0 win against Falkirk as he filled in to replace Kelechi Iheanacho, who is still injured.
Maeda came off the bench to get a solid run out on Wednesday night and would usually be the dead cert to start down the middle.
But, after Kenny’s brace and the way he linked up with Benjamin Nygren, it would be harsh to drop him from the starting line-up.
Additionally, we have no idea if Maeda is capable of playing the full 90 minutes, and he could be the perfect option from the bench.
Celtic predicted XI vs Rangers
As for the rest of the side, it does pick itself.
Kasper Schmeichel starts in goal with a back four of Colby Donovan, Auston Trusty, and Liam Scales.
Marcelo Saracchi retains his place after a brilliant midweek display, allowing Tierney to fully recover.
The same midfield trio of Callum McGregor, Nygren and Arne Engels start following their impressive display.
To round off the side, Sebastian Tounekti starts on the left, Kenny takes the role down the middle and James Forrest then lines up on the right.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
