Celtic travel to the capital to face Hibernian on Wednesday night, looking to ensure that their lead at the top remains at least nine points come 10pm.
The Hibees have been in indifferent form over recent matches, losing to Aberdeen, Ross County and Kilmarnock in the final three matches prior to the World Cup break, and returning to action with an unfortunate defeat at Ibrox before a stunning 4-0 win over Livingston.
Last time the sides met, Celtic ran out 6-1 winners. James Forrest scored a hat trick that day, while Giorgos Giakoumakis bagged a brace (Maeda added the sixth). Both could be in line to start after featuring little since that game, which could play on the minds of the Hibernian defenders.
Hibs are unlikely to make any changes to the side that beat Livingston this weekend. They appear to have that same full XI available, and could be bolstered by the return of Mykola Kukharevych from injury.
Celtic have similarly positive team news with the likes of Jota and Abada pushing for a recall to the side and a wealth of options all over the park. Ralston could be able to return at right back, although that position may belong to Reo Hatate for now as the Japanese midfielder put in a man of the match performance and scored two goals from the unfamiliar full back position against St Johnstone at the weekend. The Hoops’ only fresh absentee is David Turnbull, following his red card for dangerous play on Saturday.
If Celtic win then it sets up a mouthwatering opportunity to all but seal the title with victory at Ibrox, providing theRangers don’t drop points against Motherwell. On the other hand, defeat could encourage our rivals ahead of that match with a reduced gap.
It’s up to Ange’s team to keep the foot on the pedal over the next two games and put themselves in an incredibly strong position.
Let’s see what Wednesday brings.
