Why is Celtic’s James Forrest missing today’s Old Firm clash with Rangers?

James Forrest wasn't named in the Celtic matchday squad to face Rangers. Picture: SNS Group

Celtic travelled to Ibrox for the final Old Firm clash of the season, and interim boss Neil Lennon sprang something of a surprise with his team selection.

Missing from the starting XI was winger James Forrest, with youngster Mikey Johnston and on-loan West Bromwich Albion wideman Oliver Burke both handed starting spots and Scott Sinclair named on the bench.

Speaking ahead of the match, Lennon - who was also without Scotland international defender Kieran Tierney - said: “Both of them weren’t fit to play so we can’t take any chances with them.

“It’s obviously a blow, [because] they’re both fantastic players.”

James Forrest wasn't named in the Celtic matchday squad to face Rangers. Picture: SNS Group

There had been some hope that Tierney, linked today with a £30 million switch to Italian giants Napoli, would be fit enough to face the Light Blues in the hotly-anticipated clash.

The 21-year-old is set to undergo a double hernia operation in the summer, with Celtic managing his injury as the season comes to an end.

Lennon added: “We want to finish the season as strongly as possible with the cup final in mind as well. I’m looking for a big performance from the players.”