Whilst many Rangers fans may state that it doesn’t bother them, Tom Rogic’s departure before the Old Firm game is a massive boost for the club.
Celtic’s Australian ace hasn’t been at his best this season, but he always turns up in these fixtures. He managed to bag against Rangers on four different occasions last season, proving how much of a handful he was.
It’s a new year, of course, and Rangers would’ve fancied their chances of keeping him quiet anyway. Rogic is Celtic’s main creator in the number 10 position, and it would’ve been a nice challenge for the likes of Ryan Jack and Lassana Coulibaly to keep him quiet.
Fortunately for Rangers, however, it’s looking all but confirmed that the Australian will miss the clash on Saturday. His national team are demanding that he flies out immediately after Celtic face Aberdeen on Boxing Day. This is down to the fact that they’re already allowing Rogic extra-time with his club to play in that game at Pittodrie. Australia are taking part in the Asia Cup this year.
This takes a key cog away from Celtic. Yes they may have cover, but Rangers have to take some real comfort in knowing their rivals are missing such an important player. Such an important talisman on this occasion.
Rangers would be confident regardless of who Celtic play
Confidence would’ve been high at Ibrox regardless. Many still remember Rogic fondly for his penalty miss at Hampden in the 2016 Scottish Cup semi-final. Him starting wouldn’t have had anyone sulking their face into their hands.
But so much of their play goes through the Australian. Not having him on the pitch could lead to a lot less dangerous Celtic attacks. Remember, he was the one who effectively set-up the winning goal between the sides at Parkhead with a near 70-yard run. Celtic now don’t have that in their arsenal.
Meanwhile, in other injury news for their rivals, Celtic seem to have Kieran Tierney, Mikael Lustig, and Odsonne Edouard fit for Ibrox. Dedryck Boyata is still doubtful. So most of their big-hitters will be available regardless.
Rangers, however, have a huge chance to finally land a hammering blow onto Celtic. This has been a Celtic side that’s proven in the past that they don’t deal well with having to make changes to their side. They’ll have to make a couple for Ibrox, and Rangers have to take full advantage.
But while some may shrug their shoulders at the idea of Rogic being out. In truth, it’s a huge boost to Rangers on the park.
