Some Celtic fans are getting excited at the prospect of Leigh Griffiths vs Rangers next week at Ibrox.
The Parkhead number nine has netted on both of his starts in Govan during his time in Glasgow. He bagged his first against them away from home back in the 5-1 rout of 2017. He then notched his second in a 2-0 success in September 2018.
And it looks as though he could be set for his third start at Ibrox next Sunday. Griffiths has been in scintillating form since the winter break, with his hat-trick against St Mirren yesterday taking him to eight goals in 13 appearances (Soccerbase).
Griff reacted to his hat-trick yesterday by claiming that he was “born” for a derby game at Ibrox (Scottish Sun). It appears as though plenty of supporters agree too. Here’s a look at some of the voices who are in favour of a Griffiths start next week:
https://twitter.com/swiftybhoy/status/1236385967449288705
https://twitter.com/MartinW55349326/status/1236583358391562241
https://twitter.com/MetalheadCelt/status/1236337717056811008
https://twitter.com/CellicFC/status/1236317167399907330
The stage is set for you Leigh
There was something special about his performance yesterday – something symbolic perhaps. It’s not only the fact he managed to bag a hat-trick – it’s the fact it happened in the match before our trip to Ibrox.
It’s almost as if it’s fate that he gets a starting spot in Govan next week. Given the troubles he’s had, what an end that would be if Griff was to fire home a goal or two in front of our rival supporters.
Of course, there are no guarantees Griffiths starts next weekend either. Lennon has tended to switch to a back four in European games, and given Rangers are still in the Europa League, it’ll be interesting if the manager feels they’re too dangerous to go with a back three against.
History, however, shows that a back four doesn’t always work. Look at Copenhagen for example. Celtic have been getting the best out of their forward-thinking players with a 3-5-2 system. Flooding the midfield at Ibrox could also work in our favour with regards to setting the tempo and controlling the game.
Some Celtic fans are absolutely crying out for Griffiths and Odsonne Edouard to partner each other at Ibrox next week. Rangers’ pride will force them to come out and try to attack us. If we’re countering on them with Griff and Eddy up top – it’s a beautiful thought to say the least.
But nothing is guaranteed. The manager will have his own thoughts about how to tackle Sunday’s game. Hopefully, it involves two up top in any case.
Would you go with two up top against Rangers next Sunday? Is Griffiths deserving of a start after his hat-trick against St Mirren? Is it fate that he does the business? Give us your verdict in the comments below.
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