In the Scottish Premiership, Celtic takes on Rangers on Saturday with the goal of winning their second derby of the year under Brendan Rodgers.
When Celtic won all three games at Ibrox in September of last year, Michael Beale’s reign as manager came to an end throughout the city, and the current champions took the lead in the standings.
Despite the Bhoys’ home advantage, the visitors are unbeaten since Philippe Clement took over for Beale, so they could be a far tougher opponent.
However, we are aware that Celtic and Rodgers are more than capable of having successful derby days, and it is hoped that the league leaders will be able to reaffirm their status as the greatest team in the nation.
What kind of squad will Aaron Rodgers start today with injuries to deal with and some players making their way back from extended absences? Our best view of the eleven is shown here.
Potential Rangers vs. Celtics squad
The manager made the major announcement prior to kickoff when he confirmed that defender Cameron Carter-Vickers would not play in the game or the forthcoming trip to St. Mirren.
Consequently, Stephen Welsh emerges as the front-runner to play in the center of defense alongside Liam Scales, backed by Greg Taylor, Alistair Johnston, and Joe Hart in the goal.
Reo Hatate, who has been training with the team all week, is a good bet to start in midfield but is more likely to be a substitute given his extended absence. He might be used as a second-half substitute for Matt O’Riley, Paulo Bernardo, and Callum McGregor in a midfield three.
In Friday’s press conference, Aaron Rodgers gave a positive update on Liel Abada, saying he “looks really good” in training at the moment. But to throw him into such a fast-paced match from the beginning later today would be a big ask after he has been out of action for more than three months. He is far more likely than Hatate to contribute in the second half if necessary.
Taking that into consideration, it seems likely that both Daizen Maeda and Luis Palma will stay on the team despite Mikey Johnston’s super sub performance against Dundee.
The dynamic focal point of the Bhoys attack will then have to maintain his outstanding record against Rangers in Kyogo Furuhashi’s role.
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