Key Highlights
- Viljami Sinisalo to start for Celtic against Rangers according to Chris Sutton.
- Benjamin Nygren and Kasper Schmeichel face selection challenges from Martin O’Neill.
- Luke McCowan could come in as a midfield option despite top scorer status of Benjamin Nygren.
- Tomas Cvancara is expected to lead the line over Junior Adamu.
- Daizen Maeda favored for left flank against James Tavernier by Chris Sutton.
Celtic’s Goalkeeper Dilemma: Sinisalo vs. Schmeichel
Viljami Sinisalo has been given the nod over Kasper Schmeichel for Sunday’s derby clash, according to former Celtic striker Chris Sutton. This decision is a no-brainer in his opinion as Sinisalo performed well in Germany last week, making decent saves and not taking any unnecessary risks.
Schmeichel’s form has been under scrutiny this season, with Sutton stating, “Kasper Schmeichel has been responsible for too many goals this season. He copes in tough situations but time waits for no man.” Despite Schmeichel’s vast experience, O’Neill might be tempted to stick with him due to his reliability, yet the younger Sinisalo, at 24, is seen as a player on form and thus more deserving of a start.
Midfield Decisions: McCowan Challenges Nygren
Chris Sutton also highlighted Luke McCowan’s potential inclusion in the starting lineup. Despite being the top scorer this season, Benjamin Nygren might have to make way for McCowan who has shown his energy and drive in recent matches.
O’Neill will face a tough decision: “Celtic can’t afford to be overrun in midfield at Ibrox and that might mean sacrifices have to be made.” While Nygren’s top-scorer status is undeniable, Sutton believes Celtic needs legs in the middle of the pitch. McCowan could play his way into the side with his running power, while Nygren will face scrutiny for potentially missing out on a vital fixture.
Up Front: Tomas Cvancara Over Junior Adamu
In the forward line, Chris Sutton expects Tomas Cvancara to lead the attack over Junior Adamu. Adamu performed well in Germany but Cvancara is seen as more successful against Rangers, especially when facing James Tavernier.
Sutton adds that Daizen Maeda should start on the left flank despite his inconsistent form. “Maeda has had a lot of success up against James Tavernier,” Sutton notes, adding that with Dujon Sterling struggling for fitness, it makes sense to pick Maeda over alternative options like Sebastian Tounekti.
Conclusion
Selection Calls Under Pressure
The stakes are high as Martin O’Neill navigates his selection calls. He must balance the need for experience and form, making tough choices that could impact the outcome of a derby match. With time running out before Sunday’s clash, it’s clear that every decision counts.
