As Celtic aim to further humiliate Rangers in the Scottish Premiership this season, a key player is set to make a timely return from injury.
Celtic Team News Confirmed for Old Firm Derby
Celtic, currently 16 points clear of Rangers in the Scottish Premiership, are on the verge of securing another league title under Brendan Rodgers in his second tenure with the club. The upcoming Old Firm derby presents an opportunity to extend their lead to 19 points and deliver another blow to their rivals.
Despite Rangers entering the match on a high after eliminating Fenerbahce from the Europa League and reaching the quarter-finals, Celtic will need to be at their best to secure victory. In a boost for the Bhoys, Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that James Forrest is set to return from injury for Sunday’s clash.
Rodgers provided an update on the squad:
“How’s the squad? Yeah, all good. We’ve had a good week, so one more day to go. One or two we are just assessing. Callum (McGregor), obviously he’s had a similar week to last week, and we’ll make a decision on him tomorrow. James Forrest is back in the squad, which is really good. Paulo Bernardo is still a little bit away. Liam Scales, he’s obviously had an issue with his cheekbones, so we’re just waiting to finalise whether he needs an operation or not. So he will be doubtful for the game, but apart from that, it’s the same squad.”
"Brilliant" Forrest Returns at the Perfect Time
Forrest’s return is a significant boost for Celtic. The 33-year-old winger is a modern-day legend at the club, having won 12 Scottish Premiership titles and scored six goals in Old Firm derbies throughout his career. His experience and quality will be crucial in this high-stakes match.
Rodgers has previously praised Forrest’s contributions, stating:
“He’s been a brilliant servant of the club. And of course, it’s probably been difficult for him the last couple of years, not playing maybe as much as he wants. But I’ve always said in terms of quality and wing-play, he’s our best winger.”
With his contract nearing its final year, Forrest looks set to add at least one more title to his impressive resume before potentially concluding his Celtic career next season. His return couldn’t have come at a better time as Celtic aim to dominate Rangers once again.
