Celtic will want to be in the best shape possible going into the Scottish Cup semi-final against the Rangers at Hampden Park this weekend. It is the same fixture that Ange Postecoglou’s side ended up losing last season and they will surely want to rectify that mistake. Also, with the League Cup already in the bag, and the Premiership looking all but done, this is also a chance for them to push towards a treble.
Celtic’s performances in recent weeks has left a lot to be desired though. And at the weekend, they drew 1-1 against Motherwell at Parkhead. Hopefully, that will act as a bit of a wake up call before the big Scottish Cup semi-final.
Of course, one cannot overlook the fact that the club have had some key players out of action over the past weeks. But there seems to be some good news regarding their fitness situation.
As tweeted out by PLZ Soccer, Postecoglou said:
"“We’ll see how they go. Abada, Jota and Reo are the main three but they are due to train all week so it will just come down to how they do during the training week.‘If they get through the training week they will be available. Everyone got through the weekend okay, it’s only James Forrest who won’t be available come the semi-final.’"
Celtic confirm massive boost before facing Rangers in Scottish Cup semi-final
Of course, all three of them are important players for Celtic. And even more importantly, they have put in big performances against the Rangers in the past.
Everybody will remember Reo Hatate’s brace against the Rangers in a 3-0 win in what was an unforgettable night at Parkhead. Jota has scored on more than one occasion against the Ibrox side as well, including the last Glasgow Derby. And Abada is also someone who knows what it feels like to find the back of the net in the big game.
Thus, if all three or any of them are available for the game against the Rangers this weekend then it would be a major boost for the Hoops. Even if they are not able to start but are on the bench, that will only make Postecoglou’s side much stronger.