Tomas Cvancara could be poised to spearhead the attack for Celtic in their Scottish Cup showdown away to Rangers on Sunday.
The tall Czech forward was an unexpected unused substitute during the 2-2 Scottish Premiership draw at Ibrox last weekend, even though the Bhoys found it difficult to maintain possession up front for large stretches of the match.
He returned to the starting lineup for the midweek win away at Aberdeen, and now appears likely to retain his spot for the forthcoming Old Firm encounter.
The cup fixture may give Martin O’Neill the chance to rotate his squad slightly, but he will still be eager to make sure his side advances while also securing bragging rights.
With that in consideration, Football Insider forecasts the Celtic XI set to face Rangers in their next test.
Martin O’Neill to make four adjustments for Scottish Cup derby
Celtic and Rangers are both involved in a tight battle with Hearts for the Scottish Premiership crown, and following another midweek match, O’Neill might take the opportunity to give some of his regular starters a rest.
Liam Scales has been playing full matches consistently in recent weeks, and with Auston Trusty available again, this could be the ideal moment to bring him back into the team.
Benjamin Arthur delivered a strong performance at Pittodrie on Wednesday night, and as a result, O’Neill may choose him to partner Trusty at Ibrox this weekend.
Kieran Tierney’s fitness situation is also uncertain, which could open the door for Marcelo Saracchi to start at left-back.
Elsewhere, Reo Hatate’s recent upturn in form should be enough for him to continue alongside Callum McGregor in midfield, with top scorer Benjamin Nygren returning just ahead of them.
Experienced winger James Forrest could be handed a rare start on the right flank, completing the five alterations from O’Neill while aiming to support Cvancara in attack.
The Celtic manager will be aware of how the first half unfolded in last weekend’s intense atmosphere at Ibrox, and it would be surprising if he didn’t opt for greater physical presence at the top of the field this time.
Kasper Schmeichel may have played his final game for Celtic
Football Insider revealed at the beginning of January that Celtic are planning to find a replacement for Kasper Schmeichel this summer, with the veteran goalkeeper’s contract due to run out at the end of the season.
His displays have come under significant scrutiny recently, and although he has missed the last two matches through illness, there has been considerable pressure from supporters for him to be dropped regardless.
Viljami Sinisalo has offered a dependable presence during Schmeichel’s absence, and he is expected to start in goal at Ibrox once again on Sunday.
If the Finnish shot-stopper continues to establish himself as a trustworthy option for the Bhoys, it could lead to him securing the number one role permanently, effectively bringing Schmeichel’s time at Parkhead to an early conclusion.
The 39-year-old is expected to leave in the summer, but he may have already made his final appearance for Celtic.