Last Celtic-Rangers Preview

By: Matt | May 8th, 2009

Normally, I try to share some funny anecdote, a serious story, or some other “opener” to introduce the opponent for the Bhoys this particular weekend. However, I will not bother with such affairs this time around. You know who the opponent is. You know what this match means. This season has had some big matches already this season, but without question this is the big one. Most likely, when people think back to the 2008-2009 Scottish Premier League Campaign, they will think of this match. I probably do not need to tell you this. So before we get to the pre-match news for this vital fixture, I will share a few links with you. First is a simple enough marketing tactic by Rangers. Much has been made about Rangers financial problems lately, so you would figure that the blue side of Glasgow would do everything possible to keep their season ticket holders. A member of the Rangers marketing team or web development team came up with the idea of creating a website that the ticketholder could customize the gates of Ibrox with their names or something like that. A cute little idea…until Timmy gets his hands on it. Needless to say, Timmy was creating slogans you likely would not see on the gates of Ibrox, such as this.

Next, a youtube video that should get everyone who supports the Bhoys pumped for tomorrow. I highlighted this video last season, but thought it was appropriate again. Gordon Strachan should actually see if Al Pacino can give the prematch talk. Yes, the speech is from a movie about American football, but I think it fits and it gets me excited.

Now, onto the pre-match news. There has been much debate about what strategy and formation Gordon Strachan will go with. Most expect a 4-5-1, but injuries might not allow that. Honestly, I am not sure what to expect from the Ginger Man this Saturday. Captain Stephen McManus has been ruled out of Saturday’s match with a knee problem, as previously reported. Celtic will also be missing defender Darren O’Dea to injury, which means that Gary Caldwell will likely remain in the back instead of heading to play holding midfield like most expected before the rash of injuries. Caldwell will likely be paired up with big Dutchman Glenn Loovens in the back. Unfortunately (I never thought I’d say this with him), Lee Naylor will also be out due to injury. With back ups, Mark Wilson and Darren O’Dea also hurt, the left back position is a bit of a question mark. I’d expect to see the newly fit Barry Robson filling in. Scott Brown will be missing the match due to suspension, so Catalonian Bhoy Marc Crosas and seasoned veteran and part time pirate Paul Hartley will likely to be in the middle. Georgios Samaras is also available again after missing last week’s match against Aberdeen due to injury, but if Strachan goes with a 4-5-1, Sammy is likely to be the third choice behind Scott McDonald and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink.