Celtic can edge closer to a historic 55th Scottish league title this weekend as they travel to McDiarmid Park to face struggling St Johnstone on Sunday (kick off: 12pm).
Brendan Rodgers’ side are currently 13 points clear at the top of the table, and a fourth successive title win seems inevitable as the beginning of the split appears on the horizon,
It’s a stark contrast for their hosts St Johnstone though, who’s 3-0 thumping at Hibs last week leaves them rooted to the bottom of the table and six points from 10th placed Kilmarnock in the battle to avoid the drop. Can Simo Valakari’s side pull off a shock at McDiarmid Park and beat Celtic for the first time since May 2016?
Both sides have injury worries ahead of the game, though Celtic were helped by the return of James Forrest, Paulo Bernardo and Auston Trusty in last week’s 3-0 win over Hearts. Will Rodgers opt to hand any of the trio a start this weekend?
Ahead of the game at Ibrox, The Scotsman brings you all the early team news:
5. Auston Trusty - Celtic - AVAILABLE
The American centre-back had a head knock which ruled him out against Rangers but he returned to the bench against Hearts is available for the weekend game in Perth. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
6. Kasper Schmeichel - Celtic - OUT
The Danish goalkeeper faces a period on the sidelines after damaging his shoulder on international duty. Could be out for up to six weeks. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
7. Stephen Duke-McKenna - St Johnstone - AVAILABLE
Only had one training session under his belt after being away on international duty with Guyana before last week's clash with Hibs. He was fit enough for a place on the bench though, so will be more than ready to face Celtic this weekend. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
8. Uche Ikpeazu - St Johnstone - OUT
Has not played all season after picking up an injury before the campaign started. Won't play a part against Celtic, and is facing a race against time to be fit or the end of the campaign. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group