Rangers take on Celtic at Ibrox this afternoon in the first Old Firm of the 2019/20 campaign.
The Gers come into the game in strong form. Just three days ago, Steven Gerrard’s side qualified for the Europa League courtesy of a 1-0 aggregate win over Legia Warsaw. For the second year running, they made it through all four qualifying rounds without falling behind once.
Domestically, things have started well too. Wins over Kilmarnock, Hibs and St Mirren mean they enter this game with a 100% record.
Celtic also enter the fixture with three wins from three in the league, but they were dumped out of the Champions League by Cluj and almost slipped up to lowly Dunfermline in the League Cup.
Following Thursday night’s exertions, Stevie G was always likely to make a few changes for this one.
Yet, the XI the manager has plucked for was somewhat unexpected.
Despite praising Alfredo Morelos’ improved disciplinary record in the build-up [Daily Record], Gerrard has opted to leave the star striker on the bench and start Jermain Defoe.
Glen Kamara also comes into the side, as Sheyi Ojo drops out. With the Liverpool loanee and Jordan Jones both on the bench, the Gers start the game without an out-and-out winger.
At left-back, Jon Flanagan replaces Borna Barisic.
Some big calls from Gerrard then and they haven’t gone down well with some Bears, that’s for sure.
Rangers vs Celtic – Bears question Gerrard’s selections:
https://twitter.com/Scotty_7298/status/1168099325928443904
https://twitter.com/rappinghood1/status/1168098911166377985
