Celtic Preview

The Steelmen experienced the comfort and confidence which came on the back of an eight game unbeaten spell earlier in the season. How will they face the task of reversing the mini-slump?

Clarkson at Parkhead

It seems inevitable that changes will be made in the team selection. Scott Leitch suffered a nasty cut below the knee in the game against Kilmarnock and is doubtful. Scott McDonald was substituted in the second half due to a recurring back problem. Phil O’Donnell is not fully fit, Kevin McBride is out (though Celtic would probably have vetoed his appearance otherwise) and Brian Kerr is still months away from a comeback. Terry will have to dream up a cunning plan.

Richie Foran impressed many of the Fir Park faithful on Wednesday and there’s a chance that he could partner David Clarkson in a striking role. Paul Quinn should keep his right back berth and Kaiser Corrigan will no doubt stay in midfield.

Celtic are odds on favourites (1/4) and our chances of an upset will largely be determined by the attitude of the players. As a rule they lift their game when the either of the Old Firm come to town and the two-nil result at Parkhead on the opening day of the season attracted much praise for our boys There will be no room for passengers.

The opposition have their injury worries too, most notably Chris Sutton, but there will be enough talent on show to keep Gordon Marshall and crew usefully occupied. Despite a gallant fight we’ll go down by a couple in a two-nil defeat.