Rangers starlet Middleton can become a hero by exploiting Tierney-less Celtic

By Tom Procter

Rangers winger Glenn Middleton could make a huge name for himself this weekend as bitter rivals Celtic come to town.

Steven Gerrard’s men have slipped to three points behind the Hoops in the race for the Premiership title, after drawing against Hibernian on Boxing Day, while Brendan Rodgers’ side edged out Aberdeen 4-3.

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Saturday’s game could have huge bearing on the destination of the league title come May; a Celtic win would certainly make things very difficult for Rangers.

The Light Blues are expected to fall away in their first season under Gerrard, but an Old Firm victory could change everything.

One man who could have a huge role to play is Middleton, who must fancy his chances playing from the right.

A chance for Middleton with Tierney out

Kieran Tierney is likely to be unavailable for the visitors.

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The Scotland international has been nursing a hip injury, and is struggling to make the clash with Rangers.

The left-back has missed the last four matches for Celtic, and his absence clearly weakens the side.

Against Aberdeen, Emilio Izaguirre deputised but was hooked at half time by Rodgers after he conceded a penalty.

If Tierney fails to recover in time as expected, then it could be a real chance for Middleton.

(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The teenager, who turns 19 on New Year’s Day, will fancy his chances against either Izaguirre or Jonny Hayes.

There’s a chance he could really make things happen for the hosts. His directness is likely to cause huge problems for Izaguirre or Hayes, neither of whom are as good as Tierney defensively.

The stage is set for Middleton to produce a potential coming of age performance against the club’s biggest rivals.