Celtic in unusual position as unlikely outcome vs Rangers emerges
Rangers have been predicted to beat Celtic 2-1 in the William Hill Premiership on Sunday.
Daily Record journalist Keith Jackson believes that while the Hoops could come away with a point from Ibrox on 1 March, their recent performances make that prospect unlikely.
Martin O’Neill’s team are claimed to be in an “unusual position” as they hope to avoid defeat in the Old Firm derby, highlighting how difficult things have been at Parkhead in recent months.
The Gers are looking to close the gap with Hearts, with the Jam Tarts extending their lead to seven points after beating Aberdeen 1-0 at home on 28 February, and Danny Rohl is expected to have the upper hand over Celtic in Govan.
Rangers and Celtic form in last five matches coming into Old Firm derby
Rohl has brought stability back to the Gers since taking over from Russell Martin, with fans in G51 now hopeful of winning the league title.
The Light Blues were considered out of the race for top spot in the William Hill Premiership after their abysmal start under the former Southampton head coach, but the German manager could potentially do the unthinkable at Ibrox.
In the Govan side’s last five matches in all competitions, they’ve won 3 and drawn two, scoring 20 goals.
Celtic have had a volatile campaign, with Brendan Rodgers’ resignation and Wilfried Nancy’s subsequent appointment leaving them in a tough spot.
The Hoops have won three and lost two of their last five matches in all competitions, with their most recent league game ending in a 2-1 defeat to Hibernian at Parkhead.
Writing in the Daily Record on 28 February, Jackson said, “Celtic go into this one in the unusual position of looking to avoid a defeat, which just goes to underline how far things have been allowed to slide. Rangers, on the other hand, have upgraded key areas of Rohl’s side and have been strong at home. The champions could escape with a point, but their recent performance levels make that unlikely.”
Danny Rohl must stick to one plan at Ibrox vs Celtic
Rohl wasn’t sure whether Ryan Naderi would be fit enough to start for the Gers against Celtic in his pre-match press conference.
Many want to see the German striker return to the starting lineup alongside Youssef Chermiti, with the former Sheffield Wednesday boss urged to play two up top.
Even if the ex-Hansa Rostock star isn’t available, Bojan Miovski should make his way into the team from the get-go at Ibrox.
Playing with two number nines has often brought success for the Light Blues this season, but it remains to be seen what Rohl will decide to do on the day.
For more in-depth analysis on the Gers, visit Football Insider.