Celtic seek spark as Rangers aim for further derby joy
Celtic face Rangers in their first league Old Firm derby this Sunday, with momentum shifting toward the visitors following recent results.
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Celtic and Rangers square up again in the Scottish Premiership this Sunday, with the champions looking to bounce back after a 3-0 defeat to the Ibrox side in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-finals and a 3-1 loss to Ferencvaros in the Europa League.
Pressure is mounting on Martin O'Neill following those displays, yet Celtic have the opportunity to move eight points clear of their rivals with a win. O'Neill remains optimistic, stating: "We're still in the lead in the league. If we can win this, we can extend the lead. If we don't, going into the international break, we're still going to be in front."
Momentum appears to be with Rangers, who have secured five successive wins. Manager Derek McInnes remains grounded, however, noting that the Glasgow rivalry can change in an instant. "You're only one bad result away from getting a belt in the mouth again," he said. "We've worked hard to get to where we are, but we'll need to deliver again on Sunday."
Team news reveals fitness concerns for both sides. Celtic are assessing several players following their midweek loss, with Alistair Johnston and Callum Osmand still sidelined. Rangers may be without striker Ryan Naderi due to an ankle injury sustained in the previous encounter, though left-back Tuur Roomens has resumed training.