Celtic supporters will be impatient for their next two league fixtures that could signal Brendan Rodgers’ first campaign back ends in title glory.
The Bhoys hold a three-point advantage at the summit with a superior goal difference to Rangers heading into the Glasgow Derby this weekend.
Kicking off at 12.30 pm, Celtic know that a win over their rivals would all but guarantee a third Scottish Premiership trophy in succession; however, Brendan Rodgers isn’t someone who will be getting ahead of himself despite the symbolism of the occasion.
Claiming three points would place his side six points clear with two games to go, plus an increased differential on the goal front, with Kilmarnock and St Mirren left to face the following week.
Should this turn of events unfold, a draw at Rugby Park would suffice, at minimum, to guarantee Celtic a 12th title in 13 years; nevertheless, Rodgers will be taking things a day at a time rather than bowing to suspense from external sources regarding the title race.
Focusing on this weekend has to be the main aim for the Irishman, who has decisions to make on his starting line-up for another crucial fixture.
Lennoxtown has to be a sea of calm for his players as they hone in on turning their desires into reality during the final stretch of the run-in.
Celtic find out officials for Kilmarnock clash
Rugby Park hasn’t been a happy hunting ground this season for Celtic, as Derek McInnes has claimed two victories in Ayrshire against Rodgers in the Scottish Premiership and Scottish League Cup.
Furthermore, the fixture’s permutations could change due to the Bhoys’ result against Rangers, so it is important not to get too caught up in potential scenarios until Saturday’s action is said and done.
Either way, Don Robertson has been appointed to referee Kilmarnock vs Celtic; meanwhile, Graeme Stewart and Frank Connor will assist by running the lines [Scottish FA].
Greg Aitken is the chief VAR operative, though Dougie Potter is also by his side to run the rule over any contentious decisions that require further observation. Euan Anderson takes up the role of fourth official.
Celtic could well be set for a defining day against Kilmarnock one way or another. All eyes will be on Rangers this weekend before the reigning champions shift their focus to events at Rugby Park.