Callum McGregor vs Joe Newell
They say the midfield battle is the most crucial part of any football game, let alone a cup final. The Celtic skipper is back to his brilliant best this season and has enjoyed a great personal campaign so far. He will come up against a similar-style player in Newell on Sunday. It will be interesting to see who comes out in top. It could be the most pivotal battle of the lot in helping to determine the result.
Martin Boyle vs Greg Taylor
Liam Scales has performed well since breaking into the team in the previous few games for Ange Postecoglou's men. However, with it being a huge game, it seems likely Scotland internationalist Taylor will get the nod at left-back. He will need to use all of his experience when coming up against Hibs' star man Boyle. He scored a hat-trick last time out at Hampden versus Rangers. He will need to be on top form again if Hibs want to take the League Cup back through to Edinburgh.
Tom Rogic vs Alex Gogic
Rogic has been another player whose form has drastically improved under the tutelage of Postecoglou. He is a vital cog in Celtic's midfield on current form. His ability to glide between the opposition's midfield and then to drive at defender's is a big attribute. Gogic has not had the game time he would've liked so far this season at Easter Road. He has been involved under David Gray though, so the interim may fancy the combative midfielder to disrupt Celtic's key ball-players as much as possible.
Jota vs Paul McGinn
Portuguese winger Jota has been a stand-out signing for Celtic. On-loan from Benfica, it seems inevitable the Parkhead club will attempt to sign the attacker on a permanent deal as soon as they can. He will face Hibs right-back Paul McGinn on Sunday. It should make for an interesting encounter, with neither player an easy opponent respectively.
Kevin Nisbet vs Cameron Carter-Vickers
Scotland star Nisbet has not managed to hit the heights of his last two seasons at Hibs and Dunfermline. He is still a major threat for defenders though, and Celtic's defence will be well aware of the danger he poses them. They will be preparing for his inclusion in Sunday's game. It is likely he will have some sort of say on the day. CCV and his centre-back partner will need to be alert.
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