Celtic and Rangers name starting line-ups ahead of Hampden semi-final

The starting line-ups for the second of this weekend’s Scottish Cup semi-finals have been revealed as Celtic and Rangers prepare to come head-to-head at Hampden.

Ange Postecoglou and Michael Beale have named the sides they believe are capable of winning the game and reaching the final being held in June.

Celtic are looking to take another massive step towards securing a historic eighth treble as Rangers aim to avoid a trophy-less season.

The Hoops have been handed a boost with the return of Reo Hatate and Jota to the team after a couple of weeks out, meanwhile Beale welcomes defensive stalwart Connor Goldson and winger Ryan Kent back to the fold.

Both teams are currently joint on seven domestic trebles each and Celtic could claim a new world record if they get a clean sweep this season.

With only one win needed from the last five games to win the league title a victory against their city rivals at the national stadium would set up a final with Inverness Caledonian Thistle who beat Falkirk on Saturday.

Celtic start with Joe Hart in goals behind a back four of Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Carl Starfelt and Greg Taylor.

Captain Callum McGregor anchors a midfield three alongside Hatate and Matt O’Riley who will be supplying a front three of Jota, Daizen Maeda and Kyogo.

Rangers will know the Scottish Cup represents their chance of silverware as they look to retain the trophy they won last season after a semi-final victory over Celtic and defeat of Hearts in the final.

They start with Allan McGregor in goals with captain James Tavernier on the right side of a back four that includes Goldson, Ben Davies and Borna Barisic.

A midfield three of John Lundstram, Nico Raskin and Todd Cantwell will be supporting the attacking trio of Ryan Kent, Malik Tillman and Alfredo Morelos.