Celtic brace for a pivotal clash against Rangers in an imperative derby at Ibrox this Sunday (7 April) in the Scottish Premiership, with a significant boost already in their favor.

Captain Callum McGregor’s return to Lennoxtown on Friday marked a turning point for the Bhoys, along with Luis Palma’s presence in training. Additionally, Reo Hatate, fresh from a 60-minute display in the 3-0 victory over Livingston, appears to be in good shape.

The comeback of the skipper at this critical stage of the season presents a substantial lift for the Hoops. McGregor, a revered figure at the club, embodies exceptional leadership and is set to play a key role in the upcoming fixture.

Having been sidelined for approximately five weeks due to calf issues, McGregor’s availability for the Old Firm derby has been confirmed by Brendan Rodgers, albeit with a final decision pending before kickoff.

Rangers manager Philippe Clement has acknowledged McGregor’s prowess, describing him as a top-notch player possessing remarkable quality. While the Gers recognize the need to nullify his impact on the game, Clement emphasizes the collective effort required to subdue Celtic’s strengths.

“He’s an exceptional player with a wealth of talent,” remarked Clement (from the Daily Record, page 67), highlighting McGregor’s ball-playing abilities and influence within his team.

The return of Hatate and Palma further bolsters Rodgers’ options for the pivotal encounter at Ibrox. While Nicolas Kuhn has deputized efficiently in Palma’s absence, Rodgers faces a crucial decision regarding the starting lineup. Assuming no setbacks during training, Palma is likely to feature prominently in the initial XI.

The dilemma of whether McGregor should commence proceedings in midfield looms large. Praising the skipper as an “incredible” player, Kieran Tierney recognizes McGregor’s transformative impact on the team, even if he begins as a substitute.

Although the temptation to field McGregor from the start is strong, concerns over his match fitness may warrant caution, as rushing his return could prove detrimental.