As the build-up intensifies for Sunday’s League Cup final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park, all eyes are now firmly on the Old Firm showdown.
With Celtic having navigated their Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb, attention turns to Brendan Rodgers’ quest to reclaim the trophy that eluded him last season following a shock early exit at the hands of Kilmarnock.
While the anticipation grows, the rivalry has already sparked heated exchanges, with Celtic fans rallying behind their side and Rangers supporters confident of causing an upset.
Former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson has voiced concerns about how his former club can contain Daizen Maeda, one of Celtic’s most dangerous players in recent seasons.
Barry Ferguson’s ‘worry’ over Daizen Maeda
Maeda’s pace and relentless work rate have consistently troubled Rangers in recent clashes, and Ferguson, speaking on The Go Radio Football Show, admitted his concern over the winger’s influence in Sunday’s final.
“James Tavernier’s been excellent the last four games. There is no doubt about it,” Ferguson said.
“But I look at Maeda, and I mentioned Callum McGregor, right? He’s the guy that makes Celtic tick, right?
“But see, Maeda’s done a lot of damage to Rangers, in my opinion, and I would have somebody who is physically strong and not as quick but could keep up with him. And I think Sterling is that guy that could do that.”
Ferguson noted, however, that Rangers face a dilemma with Dujon Sterling, who has struggled with fitness.
“The only worry with Sterling at this moment in time is he’s had another slight injury where he’s been taken out of the team. But they need to do something different, Rangers again, because what they’ve done previously is clearly not working.”
Celtic’s proven record in Old Firm derbies
Celtic’s squad includes several players with an impressive track record against Rangers, including Maeda and captain Callum McGregor.
These individuals have played pivotal roles in ensuring Celtic’s dominance in recent derbies, and their experience will be crucial on Sunday as Rodgers looks to secure another piece of silverware in his second stint at the club.
For Rangers, the challenge will be not only nullifying these threats but also finding a way to exploit weaknesses in a Celtic side that has looked formidable in domestic competitions.