The only match of consequence left in Celtic's calendar is the one against Aberdeen at Hampden Park later this month. The Scottish Cup will be up for grabs, as will be the chance to win another treble. Yet, before that, the two sides will meet once, at Pittodrie in Premiership action. Of course, the Hoops have already won the league title while the Dons currently sit at fourth and have the chance to climb up to third.
Of course, things are simpler for Celtic. There will be no pressure on them. Yet, this game will be like a dress rehearsal of sorts.
Celtic have to be careful, not to show their hand before the Scottish Cup final. But at the same time, they cannot make the mistake of playing out a bad game, disrupting their momentum, hurting their confidence, while giving Aberdeen some of their own.
Amid all this, the Scottish FA have announced the officials for the game between Celtic and Aberdeen at Pittodrie Stadium. Steven McLean will be the referee. Jonathan Bell and Alastair Taylor will be the two assistant referees. Dan McFarlane will be the fourth official. John Beaton will be on VAR while being assisted by Graeme Leslie.
Scottish FA make Celtic vs Aberdeen announcement
Of course, officials are always under the microscope when it comes to Scottish football. One can only hope that their decisions do not have an impact on the result of the game.
For Celtic, this is an opportunity to get an edge over Aberdeen before the Scottish Cup final. A win in their own backyard and the opposition will surely question their own ability to get a result at Hampden Park just weeks later.
On the other hand, a loss for Celtic, or even a draw, would give Aberdeen hope and confidence. So, more could be riding on the result of this game than one realises.