Rangers are preparing to do battle with Celtic in the first Old Firm derby of the season as the Ibrox club welcome their fiercest rivals to Govan.
And whilst people everywhere will be gearing up for a war on the pitch, it’s the individual battles which could prove decisive.
We’re pretty confident on the Rangers lineup for this Old Firm – not so sure on the Celtic one – but should things go to plan we foresee three main duals on the pitch.
Alfredo Morelos v Christopher Julien
Considering that Kristoffer Ajer is far and away Celtic’s best defender, it might sound strange we’re pitting Alfredo Morelos against the so-far unconvincing Julien.
But the big Norwegian is likely to be farmed out to right-back with Hatem Abd Elhamed carrying an injury.
Alfredo Morelos is on fire – and he’ll be desperate to finally make a proper impact on this fixture for the right reasons. Celtic’s £7m summer signing will need to prove his worth against the Colombian, who’ll surely target the Old Firm rookie.
Ryan Jack v Scott Brown
Scott Brown’s nervous, dodgy performances during the last two games at Ibrox have been well documented, but there’s little doubt he’ll start at Ibrox tomorrow.
He is Celtic’s most experienced player and it’s unimaginable they’ll come into the Ibrox cauldron without him.
Jack’s form has been outstanding since the first whistle of the season, and if he can dominate the midfield over Brown we’ll be well on our way to three points.
Jon Flanagan v James Forrest
Even the most dyed in the wool bluenose would admit that James Forrest is a very good player. He’s made a difference on Old Firm day before and he’ll be looking to do the same again.
Up against Jon Flanagan, he’ll be targeting arguably our weakest position. But Flanagan loves a big match, and you’re hoping the crunching right-back-turned-left-back raises his game.
This will be one of the most decisive battles on the pitch, should they both play.
