Celtic have received a major pre-match boost ahead of tomorrow’s explosive Old Firm clash.
Manager Martin O’Neill confirmed key players are available as the Hoops prepare for their Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against Rangers at Ibrox.
The news has sent waves of optimism through the Celtic support on the eve of the biggest domestic fixture of the young season.
Tierney Cleared and Ready for Ibrox Battle
The biggest lift comes in the shape of Kieran Tierney.
The Scotland international is fully available after recovering from a thigh injury that kept him out of recent matches.
Tierney made a late substitute appearance in the midweek 1-0 win over St Johnstone, coming on in the 87th minute.
O’Neill was clear that the left-back is now ready for selection and could feature from the start at Ibrox.
His return adds genuine quality and experience to the Celtic back line and attack.
Why Tierney Matters So Much
Tierney’s ability to bomb forward and deliver dangerous crosses has been a feature of Celtic’s play this season.
He already sits high on the team’s assist chart and offers a different dimension on the left flank.
Facing Rangers without him would have been a significant blow.
His availability changes the tactical picture for O’Neill and gives Celtic more options in both defence and attack.
Baur Fitness Scare Quickly Resolved
There was a brief moment of concern on Friday when midfielder Mika Baur missed training.
The German had scored the winning goal against St Johnstone just days earlier and was expected to be a key figure at Ibrox.
O’Neill moved quickly to calm any worries, stating that Baur had only picked up a minor knock.
The manager confirmed the player would train on Saturday and is expected to be available for the Rangers match.
It is another important piece of positive news for the Celtic camp.
Baur’s Growing Influence
Since joining in the summer, Baur has quickly established himself as a first-choice midfielder.
His energy, pressing and ability to arrive in the box have made him a valuable asset.
Losing him for an Old Firm derby would have been a major setback.
His expected presence gives Celtic greater control in the middle of the park.
Wider Squad Picture Looking Stronger
Celtic also have Kasper Høgh available after his own recent injury absence.
The Danish striker featured against St Johnstone and offers a physical presence up front.
Cameron Carter-Vickers was rested in midweek and is expected to return to the starting eleven.
These additions strengthen O’Neill’s hand as he prepares his strongest available side.
The only notable absentees remain Alistair Johnston, Jota, Callum Osmand and Yang Hyun-jun, who is away on international duty.
Perfect Domestic Form Continues
Celtic head into the derby with a flawless record in the Scottish Premiership.
They have won all six of their league matches so far, scoring freely and conceding very few goals.
That momentum is significant heading into a high-pressure cup tie against their greatest rivals.
The midweek victory at St Johnstone, secured by Baur’s goal, kept the perfect start intact.
O’Neill used the game to rotate several players, ensuring key men were fresh for the Ibrox trip.
Tactical Edge for the Hoops
Tierney’s return allows Celtic to maintain their preferred shape on the left side.
His overlapping runs force opposition full-backs to defend deeper and create space for the attackers inside.
Combined with Baur’s midfield drive, Celtic should be able to dominate territory and create chances.
Høgh and Camilo Duran give O’Neill multiple options in the final third.
The manager will look to control the tempo and prevent Rangers from settling into any rhythm.
Rangers’ Injury Problems Offer Extra Opportunity
While Celtic’s news is positive, Rangers are dealing with a more serious injury list.
Both main strikers, Youssef Chermiti and captain Lawrence Shankland, are long-term absentees.
Several other first-team players are also unavailable, leaving Derek McInnes with limited options up front.
This relative strength in squad depth could prove decisive in a tight derby.
Celtic will aim to exploit any fatigue or lack of cutting edge in the Rangers attack.
No Away Fans Changes the Atmosphere
Tomorrow’s match will be played without any Celtic supporters inside Ibrox.
The SPFL’s temporary ban on away fans for Old Firm fixtures this season remains in place.
That decision followed trouble at the Scottish Cup meeting earlier in the year.
The absence of the green and white end removes one traditional element of the rivalry.
Celtic players will need to generate their own intensity and focus without the usual away support.
Fan Reaction Across the City
Celtic supporters have reacted with clear relief and excitement to the fitness updates.
Social media filled with positive messages once O’Neill confirmed Tierney and Baur are available.
Many fans believe the returns give their side a genuine chance of progressing to the semi-finals.
There is also recognition that the team must still perform under pressure in a hostile environment.
The general mood among the Hoops faithful is optimistic but realistic about the challenge ahead.
What Success Would Mean
Victory at Ibrox would send Celtic into the last four of the Premier Sports Cup.
It would also deliver an early psychological blow in the season-long battle with Rangers.
The two sides meet again next weekend in the Premiership at Celtic Park, so tomorrow’s result carries extra weight.
A win would reinforce Celtic’s strong start and maintain their position as the team to beat in Scotland.
For O’Neill, it would represent another significant step in his current spell in charge.
The Final Hours of Preparation
Celtic will complete their final preparations on Saturday before travelling to Govan.
O’Neill is expected to name a strong side that blends experience with the form players from recent weeks.
The focus remains on controlling the game and taking the chances that come their way.
With Tierney and Baur available, the squad feels more complete than it did 48 hours ago.
That sense of readiness could prove vital in what promises to be a fierce contest.
Looking Ahead to Kick-Off
The match kicks off at 12pm on Sunday at Ibrox Stadium.
It will be shown live on Premier Sports, with coverage beginning an hour earlier.
Referee Nick Walsh will be in charge of a fixture that rarely lacks drama.
Celtic will walk out knowing they have received the best possible fitness news in the build-up.
Whether that translates into a result will be decided on the pitch, but the boost has arrived at the perfect time.
For the players, staff and supporters, the message is clear.
Celtic head into the Old Firm derby stronger than they looked just a few days ago.
That could make all the difference when the first whistle blows at Ibrox.