Selection Dilemma for Michael Beale Ahead of Old Firm Derby With Celtic
![GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - FEBRUARY 26: Sead Hakasabanovic of Celtic is challenged by Todd Cantwell of Rangers during the Viaplay League Cup Final between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden Park on February 26, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - FEBRUARY 26: Sead Hakasabanovic of Celtic is challenged by Todd Cantwell of Rangers during the Viaplay League Cup Final between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden Park on February 26, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland.](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/147137f009ecfe25d8f5af269c98d502a12f93386ea4394b8de2a80a15dc60e2.jpg)
It’s the ultimate Scottish football showdown as Rangers prepare to face off against their arch-rivals Celtic in a crucial Old Firm derby, with both teams vying for the win in a high-stakes encounter.
In what promises to be a mouth-watering encounter, Rangers are set to face off against their arch-rivals, Celtic, at Celtic Park on Saturday.
With the Ibrox side trailing nine points behind their opponents heading into the third league Old Firm derby of the season, this match is nothing short of a a must-win game for Michael Beale’s men
One player who could prove key to Rangers’ success is Nico Raskin, who is fit and available for selection after missing the last three weeks due to injury.
While it remains to be seen if he can last the pace, the midfielder’s return to the engine room alongside the impressive Todd Cantwell and Ryan Jack is sure to give Rangers a boost.
However, Beale faces a selection dilemma in the forward areas. Malik Tillman, fresh from netting a double against Dundee United, surely has to start, but where? With Antonio Colak and Alfredo Morelos struggling for form, Tillman could play through the middle as a false No.9. He has looked sharp up top and deserves an opportunity.
On either side of Tillman, Ryan Kent and Fashion Sakala will occupy the flanks with the freedom to interchange. Sakala’s impressive numbers away from home could come in handy, as he looks to exploit the space afforded to him by a high-pressing Celtic side.
The midfield area was where Rangers struggled in their last outing against Celtic, but with Cantwell, Jack and Raskin in the mix, the Ibrox side will be hoping to bridge the gap in quality.
Defender Barisic is expected to start despite his difficulties at this venue in the past, and it is unlikely that Beale will have any reservations about throwing in new boys Cantwell and Raskin.
The duo has shown they can adapt quickly to life at the club, and the alternative options have too much recent baggage in this fixture to inspire confidence.
As for the front three, Sakala has a good track record in this fixture, but it’s unlikely that Beale will play without a No.9 or drop Kent.
Therefore, we can expect Tillman and Kent to take up the free roles just off of Morelos, as was the case last week against Dundee United.
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All in all, it promises to be a fascinating encounter between two bitter rivals, and one that Rangers simply cannot afford to lose.
With a strong squad at his disposal, Beale will be hoping to keep their feint title hopes alive and emerge victorious in the third league Old Firm derby of the season.