Celtic got themselves a dominant 4-0 win over Aberdeen at Parkhead. Reo Hatate got himself a brace while Callum McGregor and Liel Abada found the back of the net as well. With just 12 league games remaining, the club will be very happy with the position that they find themselves in. It will all be put to the side temporarily though, as the focus will shift towards the Scottish League Cup final.
Celtic will come up against an in-form Rangers at Hampden Park next weekend, with the Scottish League Cup up for grabs. It is safe to say that this could be a very close game.
Both clubs have been in top form after the World Cup break and there is no denying that the Rangers have improved since the arrival of Michael Beale as manager. So, while Celtic have been the dominant team in recent Glasgow Derbies, they cannot afford to take the Ibrox side lightly going into the game.
It is quite clear that they have no such intentions either, and are focussing on preparing themselves as well as possible heading into the big game. As reported by 67 Hail Hail, Ange Postecoglou said to BBC Sportsound:
"“It’s why you want to be involved here. You want to be involved in the big games that have a consequence and there is a trophy on the line. We will enjoy the week and there will obviously be a fair bit of noise around it but that is why you want to be involved in the game.“At the same time the lads understand that we prepare ourselves in the right way and the right manner to be the best we can be on the day and that is what we will do.“It all adds to the storyline I guess. It’s a cup final irrespective and you don’t dismiss one because of the opponent you have. Every trophy is hard earned and you don’t take them for granted.“As you say it’s the two form teams in the competition, both good footballing sides and it will be a cracking atmosphere. The only place you want to be is smack bang in the middle of it.”"
Celtic boss sends clear Scottish League Cup final message to fans
The Scottish League Cup was the first trophy that Celtic won following the arrival of Postecoglou last season. And they will surely be looking to defend their title this time around.
There is some good news on the injury front from Celtic leading up to the game, as Kyogo has recovered from his shoulder problem. On the other hand, Aaron Mooy and David Turnbull should be available for selection in the final as well.
Now, the only thing left is the wait for the game. There is still a week to go and there will be a lot of things that will happen between now and then. The complete focus has to be on the League Cup final though.