Celtic team news vs Rangers: Predicted line up – Tierney injury latest, Rogic replacement

Celtic are sweating on the fitness of Kieran Tierney ahead of their Scottish Premiership meeting with Rangers this weekend.

The Hoops left-back hasn’t played since the Europa League clash with Red Bull Salzburg on December 13, missing four matches with a hip problem.

Celtic manager ahead of the Old Firm derby, despite Tierney having trained with the first-team squad this week.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Rodgers said: “He is a doubt, but we’ll assess after training and see how he is.”

Emilio Izaguirre has deputised in Tierney’s absence but the Honduran been inconsistent, while Jonny Hayes impressed during a 45-minute run-out against Aberdeen on Wednesday and could start.

The rest of the back four is settled with Mikael Lustig lining up at right-back while Derrick Boyata partners Filip Benkovic in central defence.

Craig Gordon has come under pressure following recent poor performances but should keep his place in goal with Scott Bain watching from the bench.

Meanwhile, Australian international Tom Rogic has departed for the Asian Cup so Ryan Christie is most likely to advance into the No 10 role behind Odsonne Edouard.

Scott Sinclair is almost certain to retain his spot on the left flank after his hat-trick in the 4-3 win at Pittodrie while James Forrest should start on the right.

Scott Brown and Callum McGregor are most likely to sit in front of the back four if Rodgers opts for a 4-2-3-1 line-up.

Joso Simunovic has returned to training following a knock while Leigh Griffiths is unavailable and both Eboue Kouassi and Daniel Arzani are both sidelined.

Celtic are currently three points clear of Rangers with a game in hand, meaning victory at Ibrox would be a huge boost to the Hoops’ title challenge.

Celtic predicted line-up vs Rangers – Scottish Premiership

(4–2-3-1): Gordon; Lustig, Boyata, Benkovic, Hayes; Brown, McGregor; Forrest, Christie, Sinclair; Edouard