Ahead of Celtic’s home clash in the Glasgow Derby against Rangers, we at Read Celtic will role-play (not that kind) and predict the starting XI.
We will be playing the role of Brendan Rodgers and choosing the starting XI, as well as how the team are expected to line-up on the pitch.
It also includes a bit of insight into what we expect from each player, and what they can do to make the difference.
The Hoops are unbeaten in 34 domestic games under Rodgers and find themselves 24 points clear at the top of the league table.
Rangers sit third in the Premiership table and are six points behind second placed side Aberdeen. Graeme Murty’s side defeated Hamilton 6-0 at home in their last game to set-up a Scottish Cup semi-final tie with Celtic in April.
Should look to improve his ball distribution for a better all-round performance.
Mikael Lustig
Scored the equaliser against St. Mirren last weekend. His defending and ability to get forward should benefit the team on Sunday.
Erik Sviatchenko
As we couldn’t decide, we let the fans choose the CB pairing earlier this week on Twitter. Sviatchenko has been decent at the back these past few weeks. Must keep his composure when facing the Rangers attack.
Jozo Simunovic
As we couldn’t decide, we let the fans choose the CB pairing earlier this week on Twitter. Hasn’t featured much recently but his experience under pressure and in big games this season will help contain things at the back. His partnership with Sviatchenko could prove vital.
Kieran Tierney
Will look to get forward and help out in attack as always. Link-up play with Sinclair could threaten Rangers’ defence.
Scott Brown
The captain will look to step-up once again and put in a commanding performance in midfield having won the MOTM award last weekend.
Nir Bitton
Will need to be on the ball given that the opposition will look to win the ball frequently in the middle. Performed well in the 5-1 game back in September against Rangers at Celtic Park and will look to do so again.
Stuart Armstrong
Has been an important figure in the team this season and should definitely start in midfield. His attacking talent will lay pressure onto Rangers’ back-line.
Patrick Roberts
With James Forrest out injured it’s highly likely that Roberts will be given the nod out wide. When on his game there’s no stopping him. He’ll use his skill and agility to his advantage like always and look to get balls in the box.
Scott Sinclair
Has shown his talent under Brendan Rodgers this season and has created plenty of chances for the team. Isn’t afraid to take on his man and have a shot on goal. Will see plenty of the ball on Sunday.
Moussa Dembele
Scored 32 goals across all competition so far this season and doesn’t look like stopping anytime soon. Bagged 5 goals in 3 games against Rangers which shows just how clinical he is.