It’s been a hugely successful 2022 for Celtic under Ange Postecoglou, but we’re already looking ahead at what 2023 might bring – starting with tomorrow’s Glasgow Derby!
With Celtic in the kind of form they’re in we could be in for a cracker, and we sat down with ex Celtic striker Simon Donnelly to discuss all the major talking points ahead of the big game.
Simon’s a veteran of the fixture from his six years at Celtic Park and shares his first hand experiences of what it’s like to be a player in the days and moments leading up to one of the biggest derbies in the game!
ANGE’S GLASGOW DERBY DILEMMAS
Both sides head into this one in decent form post World Cup, but it’s the fixtures before the break that have resulted in Celtic holding a 9 point advantage at the top of the table.
If you take into account the +20 goal difference then it’s effectively a 10 point lead.
Celtic have scored 4 goals in each of their last two matches and Kyogo in particular seems to be back in full flow.
14 goals in 17 league games have set him apart as the league’s top striker.
In terms of the starting line-up Ange has options all over the pitch but one of the most intriguing questions is who he’ll start at right back?
Reo Hatate has deputised there admirably over the last 2 games, but we could now see any one of Josip Juranovic, Alistair Johnston or Tony Ralston get the nod.
Our money is on World Cup semi finalist Josip Juranovic, but all of the above (including Reo) could be an option.
Up top it’s any 3 from 7 for those attacking positions but with Kyogo and Maeda finding top gear recently there may just be one other position up for grabs there.
It’s an incredibly strong position for Celtic to be in overall – and with 3 signings already added to the mix in the January then it looks like we’re only going to get stronger.
Rangers could be next to feel the full force of the Ange Postecoglou juggernaut!
ALSO IN THE EPISODE:
- Simon’s Experience at a “Celtic-Free” Ibrox in 1994
- Ange’s Defensive Dilemma
- O’Riley To Miss Out?
- Concerns Over VAR
Listen now to the full match preview with Simon Donnelly as he gives his predictions ahead of the big game.
Full episode available on the player here, on all major podcast players or here at The Celtic Exchange.