Celtic stars Jota, Reo Hatate and Liel Abada will all be available for the match squad to face Rangers in this Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final, manager Ange Postecoglou has told a media conference today.
The trio have been seen in training photos this week, suggesting they were closing in on a return. However, this afternoon’s update confirms they have all come through those sessions without an issue and could feature at Hampden.
At this point, it’s unclear whether they’ll be used as a substitute or starters, but either way it is a big bonus for supporters who understand the impact they can make on this fixture.
Celtic in good shape for Rangers clash
All three players have scored goals in the derby and produced big performances before, so simply having them as an option is positive.
Hatate offers significant creative threat and midfield stability, having built a very positive rapport with teammates such as Callum McGregor, Aaron Mooy and Matt O’Riley.
Jota has been a prime pick in Postecoglou’s eleven when fit and loves these big occasions. His best goal this season came against Rangers in a 4-0 victory at Celtic Park.
Abada, meanwhile, is lethal in the penalty area and has bamboozled this Rangers defence quite a few times now despite often being only used as an impact sub by the manager week to week.
Postecoglou also confirmed this afternoon that there are no fresh injury concerns from last week’s draw against Motherwell. James Forrest, meanwhile, is still another week or so away from returning to contention.
In other news, Celtic Park’s hugely impressive 2022/23 sell-out record.
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