Celtic handed injury concern ahead of Scottish Cup final vs Rangers

Celtic finished off the league season in style with a 3-2 win over St Mirren in front of the Parkhead crowd. A late goal from Luis Palma sealed victory on the day but all the focus was on the after-match celebrations as the Hoops lifted the Premiership trophy for the third straight season. The campaign is not over just yet though. There is still the Scottish Cup final to be played, where Brendan Rodgers’ side will meet the Rangers.

Celtic have reason to be confident going into the game. They have won three and drawn one of the four Glasgow derbies so far this season.

But at the same time, it would be a mistake to take the opposition lightly. Glasgow derbies are often one-off games, where form and records go out of the window. If Celtic are to complete the double this season, they will need to bring their A-game next weekend at Hampden Park.

Oftentimes, it might become difficult to focus once again after title celebrations. And heading into the Scottish Cup final, Celtic appear to have been handed an injury problem as well.

Stephen Welsh was one of the players to get a rare start against St Mirren. But he appeared to pick up a shoulder issue on the day and was eventually subbed off.

Of course, one would not have expected Welsh to start in the Scottish Cup final. He is a decent option to have around though and if he does end up missing the game against the Rangers, it would have to be considered a blow for Rodgers’ side.

It remains to be seen how things play out for Celtic. The good news is that Maik Nawrocki got some playing time against St Mirren and has some match practice in the bag, in case called upon next weekend.