Lee McCulloch makes Dujon Sterling plea ahead of Rangers v Celtic

Lee McCulloch tells Philippe Clement where to play Dujon Sterling ahead of Rangers v Celtic

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Published on:

21 May 2024, 5:40 am

Lee McCulloch has urged Philippe Clement to start Dujon Sterling in midfield against Celtic, joking that he wants multiple of the Rangers ace for the clash.

Despite naturally being a full-back, the versatile 24-year-old has been used in several areas for the Gers this season, having played in midfield or on either flank.

Sterling missed the 5-2 comeback against Dundee before appearing as a substitute during the 3-3 draw with Hearts in the final match of the Scottish Premiership season.

Speaking via PLZ Soccer on Tuesday (21 May), McCulloch said: "I would want to play Sterling in two positions. I think he gives so much when he's playing in the middle of the pitch.

"Celtic's three, Hatate, McGregor and O'Riley, are all good players. You need a bit of physicality and hard work to stop them from playing. I think Sterling would bring that, along with Diomande."

When asked if he would start Todd Cantwell in midfield, he replied: "I think he's going to have to. He scored at the weekend, but who do you play on the left and on the right?"

Will Dujon Sterling start in the last Old Firm clash of the season?

The former Chelsea academy star has been an incredible talent this season, playing anywhere on the pitch that Clement has asked him to and performing extremely well.

There is no doubt that Sterling would be able to perform in midfield, attempting to keep the likes of Hatate, McGregor and O'Riley quiet.

His last appearance against the Hoops even saw him claim an assist as Cyriel Dessers scored, though the Gers eventually lost the match 2-1 following John Lundstram's sending-off.

🗣️ 'He got a lot of stick for not playing Cantwell at Parkhead...I think you've got to play guys like that'

Should Todd Cantwell be in the starting XI for this weekend's #ScottishCupFinal?

WATCH The Football Show 7PM ➡️ https://t.co/w2XVziFOB8 pic.twitter.com/kB4y8f2eee
— PLZ Soccer (@PLZSoccer) May 21, 2024

The only problem is that the manager might be wary about throwing Sterling into the starting XI for an Old Firm clash, having only just returned from injury in the last match.

It could certainly be a risk that pays off, with only one game of the season remaining, but it could see Rangers forced into an early change if the 24-year-old suffers another injury.

In other Rangers news, the club have been told to cash in on one star this summer.

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