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Tom Rogic has taken to social media to confirm his departure to Australia’s Dubai camp.

Rumours circulated on Twitter that the midfielder may play on Saturday.

However, the 26-year-old put speculation to rest on his Instagram page.

The Celtic midfieler will be a big miss having been an important player in previous derbies.

Departing for Dubai and not Itching for Ibrox

Rogic posted on Instagram about his disappointment for not making the squad for Saturday.

Rogic said: “I’m very disappointed to be missing the game on the 29th.

“A decision has been made but I did everything in my power to stay for the match.

“I am a proud Australian but also love my club.

“It should never have been a debate between playing for club or country, ideally it would have been for both.”

Socceroos gaffer Graham Arnold has apoligised to Celtic and Rogic for the absence which comes a week before playing against Jordan in the Asian Cup.

Scottish football will have to cope

Celtic aren’t the only team in the country to feel hard done by going into the derby.

Arnold has also called three Hibernian players up before Saturday’s Edinburgh Derby.

Rogic and his Hibs countrymen’s absence takes a little bit away from the derby spectacle.

Celtic’s Australian has been influential in previous games against Rangers. Some Gers fans will be sighing with relief at the news.

Thus, Celtic will now need to change shape and personnel ahead of the massive match at Ibrox.

Celtic are three points clear of their city rivals with a game in hand and a team that been consistent with the players in their current positions.

The Rogic loss will mean Callum McGregor or Ryan Christie needing to go deeper, taking legs away from the centre of the park.

This will be a test of character to see if the squad will cope with the loss of a key big game player.