Celtic news: Pundit ‘100 per cent’ sure on what’s happening with Josip Juranovic
Alan Hutton is certain Josip Juranovic will return to the Celtic XI for the game against Rangers.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Gers defender said Ange Postecoglou won’t risk playing Reo Hatate at right-back in such a big game.
Juranovic was on the bench for the Hoops’ 4-0 victory against Hibs on Wednesday (28 December) but did not make an appearance.
The 27-year-old has not featured for the Celts since before the World Cup break but returned to the side on Wednesday after Croatia’s third place finish in Qatar.
Hatate, who usually plays in midfield for the Hoops, has been filling in for Juranovic and Anthony Ralston, who picked up an injury against Livingston last week (21 December).
As quoted by the Daily Record (24 December) Postecoglou heaped praise on the make-shift defender, who netted two goals in his first outing at the back.
When asked if it would be a boost for Rangers if Hatate is filling in at right-back on Monday (2 January), Hutton told Football Insider: “I think it would be.
“Although we speak about Hatate and how well he played. Defensively, that is where an issue could arise.
“We know he wants to attack and go forward. For a midfielder going into that position it is quite easy to switch off, even though he has done really well.
“There is no doubt in my mind that Juranovic will be back and will play against Rangers. If Juranovic is 100 per cent they will want him back. This is one of the biggest games so they will want their strongest team out there.“
In other news, an ex-FIFA referee has suggested Celtic are being ‘massively’ disadvantaged after new VAR rant.