New Celtic signing Michel-Ange Balikwisha could make his debut in the biggest fixture of them all this Sunday, with the Belgian winger expected to be involved in the derby clash against Rangers at Ibrox.
The manager gave him the all-clear at the press conference on Friday.
He told Celtic TV, “Yes, he’s been playing. He’s obviously fit and strong and he’s been playing games, so he’s ready-made to play if needed.”
Balikwisha, who signed from Royal Antwerp on a five-year deal earlier this week, has arrived match-fit, having been playing regularly in the Belgian top flight. That gives Brendan Rodgers a welcome boost heading into a vital match as Celtic look to bounce back from their midweek European disappointment.
With Hyunjun Yang struggling for form and subject to transfer interest from Birmingham City, Balikwisha is already being tipped to start on the left flank. However, Rodgers is reluctant to sanction Yang’s departure until a suitable replacement is lined up, which could influence his selection choices.
The winger has trained with his new teammates and is expected to be part of the travelling squad for Sunday’s showdown. The pace and directness Balikwisha brings may be exactly what Celtic need against a Rangers side under mounting pressure following their recent heavy European defeat.
