Celtic welcome fierce rivals Rangers for the first time this season as the two sides do battle in the crucial Scottish Premiership clash at Parkhead this Saturday (kick-off: 12.30pm).
Just three points separate the sides going into the clash following Celtic’s 2-0 defeat at Motherwell in midweek. The third defeat in new head coach Wilfried Nancy’s first five games in charge of the club, a loss in this weekend’s derby feels almost non-negotiable for the Frenchman.
On the opposite side of Glasgow, things are looking up for Danny Rohl and his Rangers charges following back-to-back wins over Motherwell and St Mirren in the last week. However, a win on enemy territory would really up the ante at Ibrox and boost hopes they can provide a genuine title challenge.
Ahead of the game at Parkhead, The Scotsman has all the latest team news:
13. Michel-Ange Balikwisha - Celtic - ON INTERNATIONAL DUTY
The winger has struggled to make an impact at Celtic since he arrived from Royal Antwerp, but will miss the game against Rangers anyway after being called up by DR Congo for the AFCON earlier in the month. His national team has sealed qualification to the knockout stages of the tournament, meaning he could be absent until the middle of January, depending on his country's success at the tournament. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
14. Marcelo Saracchi - Celtic - DOUBT
The Uruguayan is one of many Celtic players to have been ruled out with a persistent hamstring injury. Reports claim he is targeting a return in early January and, while Saturday is likely to come too soon for him, head coach Nancy will be hoping for a surprise boost for the game against Rangers. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
15. Joe Rothwell - Rangers - UNLIKELY TO BE INVOLVED
Linked with a move back to England in recent weeks, and has not been involved in the matchday squads of late, despite making a return from injury. Highly unlikely to be involved at Parkhead. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
16. Luke McCowan - Celtic - RETURN TO STARTING XI?
The midfielder came off the bench at half-time in the defeat to Motherwell, and has spent time playing at wing-back for new head coach Nancy. Could he handed a start in the Old Firm derby at Parkhead? | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group