Martin O’Neill given ‘food for thought’ ahead of Rangers vs Celtic showdown
Rangers face Celtic in a crucial showdown on Sunday, and Martin O’Neill has admitted that he may have a dilemma.
Ibrox hosts a clash that could determine the destination of the Scottish Premiership on 1 March, although league leaders Hearts will also have their say.
Danny Rohl‘s side are four points behind the top spot, while the Hoops are six points back but have a game in hand over their rivals.
The Parkhead side prepared for the Old Firm contest with a 1-0 win over Stuttgart in the Europa League on 26 February.
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What did O’Neill say ahead of Rangers clash?
O’Neill has admitted that Viljami Sinisalo may have played his way into contention for the clash with the Gers.
The Finnish goalkeeper replaced Kasper Schmeichel for the clash in Germany and made six saves to keep the hosts out.
Speaking after the contest, the manager said: “I think he’s done really well, I’m delighted for him, he’s a lovely lad.
“He did great in the game and so did a few others as well, not a few others, everybody did well in the match.
“And yes, it gives me food for thought ahead of Sunday.
Why Rangers desperately need to beat Celtic
Victory would be huge for the Light Blues, as Derek McInnes’ side could be nine points clear at the top by the time that kick-off comes around.
They need to keep up with the Jambos and put pressure on them, as they have shown that they can slip up already this season, on several occasions.
Hearts have won just three of their last six league matches, so they are not formidable or runaway leaders by any means, and definitely could be caught.
If Rohl’s side can continue to get results and chip away at their lead, they may well have a meltdown and throw it all away, leaving the Gers to capitalise.
If Sinisalo is between the sticks then the Bears will fancy their chances, despite his display at the MHP Arena, as he has been a backup goalkeeper so far in this campaign, and hardly played.
They have already beaten Celtic in two of the last four meetings, and they have not lost once in that time, so they will have their tails up for the contest, even more so if the 24-year-old is in goal.
The Gers need to pounce on their local rivals no matter who is in the net, and make sure that they secure bragging rights and keep up with the Tynecastle outfit.
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