League leaders Hearts welcome reigning champions Celtic this weekend as the two sides meet in a crucial Scottish Premiership clash at Tynecastle on Sunday (kick-off: 3pm).
Derek McInnes’ side are currently six points ahead of both Celtic and Rangers heading into the game, and know that a third successive victory over Martin O’Neill’s team will open up a sizeable gap at the top of the table that will be difficult for the Hoops to recover from.
However, Celtic will feel confident heading into the clash having gone four games unbeaten since the return of O’Neill as manager earlier this month. Meanwhile, their hosts have been hit by the news that several key players are set for lengthy spells on the sidelines.
The Gorgie outfit have added former academy product Marc Leonard to the squad this week, with the 24-year-old agreeing to join on loan from Birmingham City. A significant boost to their options in the centre of the park ahead of the game, the midfield injury issues has started to bite them hard in recent weeks.
Ahead of the game at Tynecastle, The Scotsman has all the latest team news:
17. Jota - Celtic - OUT
The fan favourite will likely miss the rest of the season after suffering a setback in his return from an ACL injury that he picked up last April, meaning he will have missed over a year's worth of football when he finally returns to fitness. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
18. Finlay Pollock - Hearts - OUT
A long-term injury victim, the young midfielder isn't due to return until February and won't be ready in time to help Hearts' midfield crisis this weekend. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group