Rangers v Celtic: Expert issues ‘brilliant’ Jota claim ahead of showdown
Noel Whelan has suggested Celtic can put one hand on the Scottish Premiership trophy with a win over Rangers tomorrow.
The former Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed Hoops star Jota, 23, is the dangerman the Bears will be “concerned” about.
Celtic take on Rangers at Ibrox on Sunday (3 April) knowing a win will take them six points clear atop the Scottish Premiership table.
The main story in the build-up has been the crushing injury blow to Gers hitman Alfredo Morelos – who suffered a thigh injury while on international duty and is ruled out for the clash.
Celtic claimed a 3-0 victory in the last meeting between the sides in February, while Rangers beat their fierce rivals 1-0 in August 2021.
When asked who he thinks will come out on top at Ibrox, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge: “Celtic.
“Not by a big margin mind, I think it will be a 1-0 or 2-1.
“Rangers have got to watch out for Jota. He’s the player they’ll be concerned about, he’s got the natural ability, the creativity – and the power to score goals, he’s brilliant.
“But the thing is, they’ve created such a good attacking unit at Celtic. They’ll be going out and trying to dictate the game as they did last time out – but Rangers could be wise to that after the last game, and it’s at Ibrox.
“If Celtic win – it’s their title to lose. I’ve said all along that these Old Firm games will determine the title.”
Celtic loanee Jota has notched 10 goals and 10 assists for the Parkhead side this term.
The Hoops could also be buoyed by the potential return of Kyogo Furuhashi.
In other news, medical expert drops “huge” Celtic defender claim after behind-the-scenes news.