Celtic wait on Tierney and Schmeichel fitness for Rangers Scottish Cup tie
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill provides squad update ahead of Ibrox showdown
Celtic are sweating on the fitness of Kieran Tierney and Kasper Schmeichel ahead of Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final against Rangers at Ibrox.
The Glasgow rivals meet for the second time in a week following a dramatic 2-2 draw in the Scottish Premiership last weekend.
That result dented the title hopes of both clubs, though the Hoops recovered to beat Aberdeen in midweek.
The victory over the Dons moved the Bhoys above Rangers in the table, closing the gap to league leaders Hearts to five points.
With silverware on the line, the Parkhead club are looking to join Dunfermline Athletic in the last four of the competition.
Defensive duo remain doubtful
Martin O’Neill has confirmed significant doubts over the availability of full-back Kieran Tierney.
The 28-year-old is struggling with a foot issue picked up earlier this week.
The Northern Irish manager described Tierney as a "colossal" figure for the side but admitted there is no guarantee he will feature against Danny Rohl’s team.
Kasper Schmeichel is also facing a late fitness test after missing the previous two league fixtures.
The veteran goalkeeper has trained this week following an injection.
O’Neill must now decide whether to recall the Denmark international or stick with deputy Viljami Sinisalo between the posts.
In better news for the defence, Dane Murray could return to the squad after recovering from a warm-up injury sustained prior to the Aberdeen match.
Suspension boost and injury absentees
Celtic have received a significant boost with the availability of Auston Trusty.
The defender is currently serving a ban, but his three-match suspension applies only to league fixtures.
However, O’Neill remains without several key first-team stars for the trip to Govan.
Midfielder Arne Engels is still sidelined with the thigh injury he suffered against Livingston last month.
Long-term absentees Cameron Carter-Vickers, Jota, Alistair Johnston and Callum Osmand also remain out of contention.
Johnston and Osmand have suffered minor setbacks in their recovery, though the Canadian full-back is targeting a return for the Premiership split.
Forward Kelechi Iheanacho is available for selection depending on the manager’s tactical preference.
