Where are the key battles in today’s Old Firm clash and where will the match be won and lost?
Fraser Wilson: Not being over-run in midfield is crucial but I don’t see either side giving an inch there. So it comes down to who defends better. There’s pace in both side’s wide areas but the movement of the Celtic front three might just edge it.
Andrew Newport: All over the place! It’s a game where individuals have to get the better of their direct opponents but I’d say the duels between Rangers ’ full-backs and Celtic’s wing kings Jota and Liel Abada will be pivotal.
Michael Gannon: The wide areas. Both sides like to get down the flanks and whoever gets the most joy will come out on top. Celtic may target Rangers’ left flank again.
How much will victory for either side count in the title race?
Fraser: Should Rangers fall five points behind it will be a dent in their hopes but no more at this stage. Celtic proved a wobble at the start of the season counts for nothing in May time last season. Ditto if the Hoops go one point behind.
Andrew: Celtic could go five clear with a win but it’s still far too early to be confident of a final outcome, as last season proved after Rangers claimed first blood in the opening derby.
Michael: A Celtic win would be a huge psychological boost with a five-point cushion this early but no more than that. The Hoops lost the first encounter last season and claimed the title so nothing will be decided today.
Where are the big decisions for Ange Postecoglou and Gio van Bronckhorst?
Fraser: Postecoglou has it easy. If the XI who thumped Dundee United are fit then his team is picked. But van Bronckhorst has a decision at left centre-back, does he trust James Sands? And Tom Lawrence’s injury leaves a question in midfield.
Andrew: Postecoglou’s team picks itself after last week’s demolition and I’d be amazed if he strays too far from his Tannadice line-up. GVB has a dilemma with Lawrence out so it looks a straight pick between Kamara and Davis to partner Lundstram in midfield.
Michael: It looks straightforward for Postecoglou apart from perhaps Kyogo or Giakoumakis up top. Morelos will be on the Gers bench but GVB has to decide if he replaces Lawrence with an attacker like Tillman or Scott Arfield.
Who are the big winners and losers from the summer transfer window?
Fraser: Aberdeen have upgraded well. Celtic look to have filled the gaps where required. Rangers have produced the goods in their outgoings while adding a genuine scorer in Colak. If there’s question marks, then Hibs’ recruits have still to prove their worth.
Andrew: Aberdeen have seriously improved and should finish back among the big boys. Dundee United have had a shocking start but their big name recruits should eventually click whereas St Johnstone don’t look to have strengthened at all on last season.
Michael: Hearts have done well, especially after Liam Boyce’s injury, and Aberdeen look tasty. Kilmarnock have also tooled up and Celtic are sorted. Motherwell might be shy of a few still, and there’s still a feeling Rangers have some gaps that could have been filled.
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