Brendan Rodgers has revealed it was a "logical" decision to name Callum McGregor on the bench against Rangers.
The Celtic captain is back to fitness and included in the squad but was not deemed fit enough to play from the start.
Rodgers - who insists McGregor will play a part - instead goes with Tomoki Iwata, Matt O'Riley and Reo Hatate in midfield.
McGregor is not thought to be "at the physical level" required to play 90 minutes - but Rodgers is thrilled to be able to call upon his captain if required.
In an interview with club media, Rodgers said: "It was just a logical decision. He has recovered very, very well.
"He is not quite at the physical level that you need to be to be in this game.
"He'll play a part and it's great to have his influence. And we know that at some part in the game if we need him, he is there."
READ MORE: Rangers vs Celtic: TV channel, live stream & kick-off
Celtic won't have any away supporters inside Ibrox for the derby this afternoon - however, allocations will return next season.
But Rodgers has insisted he and his players are still very aware of their backing from afar.
He added: "We got an amazing send-off yesterday from the stadium. And even though we don't have anyone in here I know in every city and every town and village around the world there will be millions of Celtic supporters.
"It's up to us to go and represent that today."
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