Neil Lennon could have close to a full strength squad to pick from for tomorrow’s trip to Ibrox.
Despite the gruelling 90 minutes away to Atletico Madrid on Thursday night the squad came through the match relatively unscathed ahead of the first derby match of the season.
Scott Brown and Anthony Stokes were left behind to receive treatment on their injuries with Lennon getting encouraging news of their recoveries although James Forrest picked up a knock in Madrid.
“James complained of a bit of muscle fatigue in a hamstring, but we will see how he is,” Lennon revealed. “Anthony has got a chance, we will see him and Brown and assess them then but, from what I gather, he (Stokes) is a lot better.”
The availability of Stokes will again give Lennon a selection dilemma to make in attack with the Celtic boss believing that Georgios Samaras has a role to play in this fixture.
New signing Mohamed Bangura also comes into contention with Badr El Kaddouri certain to start at left-back after being cup-tied from Europe playing for Dynamo Kiev.
In three visits to Ibrox last season Lennon was undefeated as Celtic manager and admits that a visit across the city brings out the best in him.
“I like the edge to this fixture,” Lennon revealed. “It keeps you on your toes, I think everyone enjoys it. You love Old Firm games when you win and hate them when you lose.
“I enjoy going to Ibrox, I always have done. It’s a great venue to play football in and there is always a decent surface.
“It isn’t intimidating but there is always an edge to the atmosphere which is always good.
“I think that is what football is all about, going to away grounds like Ibrox and Tynecastle and setting out your teams to do well. It is a good challenge.
“I have been delighted with the way the team has performed at Ibrox since I took over as manager. I think they have played very well and were unlucky not to win the last one.”
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