James Forrest is likely to be the key for Celtic at Hampden

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If Celtic are to beat Hearts and seal a ninth successive domestic trophy then James Forrest should have a big part to play.

The winger has netted 17 goals for the Hoops this season – his best by far in a Celtic shirt. His great form has partly been down to the consistent level at which he’s been playing.

The 27-year-old has long since silenced critics who labelled him as being prone to injury. Forrest started 31 of Celtic’s 38 league matches this season. He’s also featured in all eight of our cup games so far and only missed out on two European matches – once through injury and once through suspension.

Fresh legs

The speedster will be raring to go after missing Celtic’s last two league matches with a hamstring injury. He’s been a man for the big occasion both this season and in general during his time at the club.

Forrest’s last three goals have been crucial ones for both the team and Neil Lennon. His Glasgow derby winner against Rangers in March was sandwiched by crucial goals in Scottish Cup ties. Forrest struck a screamer just when things were looking a bit too close for comfort in the quarter-final win at Easter Road. He also scored a similarly mesmerising goal in the semi-final victory over Aberdeen.

That type of inspiration may be required at Hampden again on Saturday. Hearts are likely to be stuffy opposition and creativity will have to be at its highest. Forrest is a key man when it comes to that.

The Player of the Year has netted in three of Celtic’s last four League Cup finals. Now, he’ll be keen to add the Scottish Cup’s showpiece match to that list.