As Hearts prepares to clash with Celtic this Sunday, both teams have focused on strengthening their squads to enhance their chances in the title race. The match at Tynecastle is crucial, especially after both sides have made significant moves during the January transfer window.
Hearts’ Challenges and Squad Changes
Hearts faces a challenging situation with the absence of key players. Captain Lawrence Shankland and midfield dynamo Cammy Devlin are both sidelined for an extended period due to injuries. To address these gaps, Hearts hastened the arrival of Uganda forward Rogers Mato from Vardar in North Macedonia. However, the timing of the paperwork may hinder his debut against Celtic.
Additionally, former Brighton midfielder Marc Leonard could make his first appearance for Hearts after joining on loan from Birmingham City. Earlier this week, Forest Green Rovers declined an offer for their captain, Laurent Mendy, highlighting the intense competition for player acquisition.
Celtic’s Squad Enhancements
Celtic, looking to enhance their attacking options, recently secured Czech Republic international Tomas Cvancara on loan from Borussia Monchengladbach. This signing comes in light of Johnny Kenny’s injury sustained during a recent 2-2 draw in Bologna. Celtic faced challenges in that match, playing with ten men after the earlier dismissal of Reo Hatate.
Recent Form and Statistics
Hearts aims to bounce back from a surprising exit in the Scottish Cup, where they lost to Falkirk in a penalty shoot-out. Despite this setback, they remain strong contenders in the league, sitting six points clear of both Celtic and Rangers. A victory on Sunday would mark a historic achievement for Hearts, as they seek to defeat Celtic for the third time in a single league campaign.
- Last time Hearts beat Celtic three times in one league season: Unprecedented feat
- Hearts last overcame Celtic in league meetings: October 1990
- Celtic’s form under interim management: 7 straight league victories
On the other hand, Celtic has struggled in away matches against teams at the top of the table, losing their last five encounters in such circumstances, including two defeats to Hearts in recent matches.
Rangers’ Position
Rangers, under the leadership of Danny Rohl, is closely following the top teams. Sitting third due to goal difference, they are favorites to secure another win and further pressure on both Celtic and Hearts. The anticipation surrounding this Sunday’s match is high, with significant implications for the league standings.
As the hearts clash with Celtic unfolds, the performances will not only shape the table but also set the tone for the remainder of the season.
