Rangers vs Celtic injury and suspension latest as up to 13 ruled out
Rangers and Celtic both have issues coming into their meeting on Sunday.
Rangers host their arch-rivals at Ibrox on 1 March, looking to put distance on them in the Scottish Premiership title race.
Hearts extended their lead to seven points with a 1-0 win over Aberdeen, so Danny Rohl‘s side need a positive response in the Old Firm game.
Martin O’Neill will be keen to put his side right back into the mix, and leave the Light Blues supporters dispondent at full-time.
Who could miss Old Firm clash for Rangers?
Ryan Naderi and Dujon Sterling are the main injury doubts for the Gers, and Rohl spoke about their involvement in his pre-match press conference.
Speaking on 27 February, he said: “Both are training; if it’s enough to be in the squad, I have to decide tomorrow.
“Today I can’t say if they’re in or out.
“I need to see their reaction to the session.”
It seems like they both face fitness tests ahead of kick-off to see if they will play, or whether the manager will have to call on replacements.
Oliver Antman missed the trip to Livingston last time out, but he may be back for the clash against the Hoops, his status is doubtful at the moment.
Conor Barron (hamstring), Derek Cornelius (muscle) and Bailey Rice (unspecified) are also expected to miss out with long-term issues.
Who will Celtic miss for Rangers clash?
The visitors are dealing with several injury issues of their own.
Julian Araujo did not travel for the Celts’ win over Stuttgart in the Europa League in midweek due to a hamstring issue, so his status will be in question for the contest.
Arne Engels is not ready to return against the Gers, as his return from a thigh strain should come after the March international break.
Callum Osmand (hamstring), Cameron Carter-Vickers (Achilles), Alistair Johnston (hamstring) and Jota (knee) are expected to miss the contest as a result of long-term injuries.
Auston Trusty is suspended for the clash as he prepares to serve a three-match ban after picking up a red card against Hibernian last time out.
The Parkhead side tried to appeal against the suspension, but it was upheld by the Scottish FA and he will serve the first game of that ban in the contest.
Given the absentees that the visitors have, the Gers and Rohl should be confident of securing a vital three points in the title race, if they play their way.
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