Matt O’Riley reveals one thing he’s looking forward to when Celtic face Rangers

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Today is the day that we have all been waiting for. The fifth meeting of the season between Celtic and Rangers will determine if Celtic will have the opportunity to go for a world record eight domestic treble and decide if our Ibrox rivals will finish another season trophyless.

Celtic midfielder, Matt O’Riley was speaking ahead of the big kickoff today and reflected on last season’s loss at the same stage of the competition. And according to the Danish u21 international, even though it’s the fifth meeting between the two clubs, there will still be something unique about the occasion.

O’Riley said, “We lost last year which obviously wasn’t great but this is a new year and we are a completely different team so we will see. 

“I was not here when opposition fans were allowed in at Celtic Park and Ibrox but from what I have heard it was impressive so yeah, I am looking forward to there being an equal split on Sunday.

“I like playing Rangers especially up here, so I think getting to play them more than two times a season is pretty cool.

“It is a game that brings so much to the players and the fans in terms of the whole atmosphere it creates so that is a big positive. 

“Playing the same team two or three teams in the space of six weeks must be unique. You get to know them pretty well and the way they play pretty well. Of course, the same will apply for them.

“One of the most enjoyable things about the derbies is the way each one throws up different challenges so I don’t think it matters too much.” [The Herald]

What we can expect from today’s Glasgow Derby

Well, for one, we are almost at full strength for this tie. Only James Forrest misses out and whether or not Reo Hatate, Jota or Liel Abada start against Rangers, the fact that they are available is a massive boost for us.

We can also expect lots of colour. All week The Green Brigade have been campaigning for Celtic fans to ‘Wear the Hoops‘ to help create another visual spectacle ahead of the Glasgow Derby.

With the SFA banning early entry into the stadium to organise a TIFO, there is no doubt that the Celtic fans will do their part to ensure that this game, like others before them, will be unique in its own special way.