Celtic FC manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed that captain Callum McGregor is a doubt for the upcoming Old Firm derby against Rangers. McGregor was withdrawn during last Sunday’s Scottish Cup win over Hibs and missed training on Friday.
Rodgers stated that McGregor would be assessed on Saturday to determine his availability for the match. Reports suggest that the expectation from within the club is that McGregor will likely train and be in the frame to face Celtic’s city rivals.
If McGregor is unable to play, Luke McCowan could be drafted into the starting lineup, with Reo Hatate deployed in a deeper role to make up the engine room trio alongside Arne Engels. The rest of the side is expected to remain unchanged, with Daizen Maeda retaining his place as the central striker.
Maeda has been in impressive form, and his position in the team is considered undroppable. Yang’s form has also been impressive, but he is expected to continue on the bench. Jeffrey Schlupp is expected to make his Old Firm debut, having recently joined the club.
The predicted Celtic XI for the match is:
Goalkeeper: Joe Hart
Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Carl Starfelt, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Greg Taylor
Midfielders: Reo Hatate, Arne Engels, Luke McCowan (or Callum McGregor if fit)
Forwards: Daizen Maeda, Kyogo Furuhashi, Jota
The match against Rangers is highly anticipated, and Celtic will be looking to secure a crucial victory in the Scottish Premiership.
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