Celtic and Rangers received different European outcomes from the Jury, while Philippe Clement encounters a significant Ibrox caveat

Celtic and Rangers received different European outcomes from the Jury, while Philippe Clement encounters a significant Ibrox caveat.

Will Celtic achieve a positive outcome against Aston Villa? ANDY NEWPORT: They might not desire one. If they defeat John McGinn and co, it could lead to facing teams like Man City, PSG, Sporting, Benfica, or PSV in the play-offs. A loss likely means encountering Brest, Lille, Feyenoord, or Monaco in the next round. It may not be a terrible idea for Brendan Rodgers to send the kids down to Villa Park. CRAIG SWAN: With qualification secured, they can take a shot at it without restraint. However, it won’t be straightforward. Villa is strong and has its own agenda, but Celtic could secure a draw.

KEITH JACKSON: While Villa needs a victory to secure a top-eight finish, Celtic has a free shot. Should Scotland’s champions secure a point on the road, it would serve as a definitive statement for the playoff rounds.

MICHAEL GANNON: They have a chance to fight. It is a complimentary punch and will serve as an effective benchmark for assessing Celtic’s position before the playoff round. However, it is also possible that a victory might not be the optimal scenario for the Celts, regardless.

Will Rangers conclude their league phase with a victory?
ANDY NEWPORT: After having dealt with the Belgians successfully in their last encounter under Gio van Bronckhorst, one would expect the Gers to manage it again. However, this hinges on the quality of team Philippe Clement can field as he faces increasing injury challenges.

CRAIG SWAN: Rangers, having been devastated in Manchester, will unleash their emotions on this week’s opponents and secure a victory.

KEITH JACKSON: Yes, as long as the Ibrox injury list doesn’t worsen. The Rangers have performed excellently once again in the Europa League, and they ought to cap off the group stage with flair.

MICHAEL GANNON: They have the capability. Although Gers is facing a tough injury situation, they can still manage to handle the Belgians now that the pressure has eased.

Hibs or Hearts – who will reign supreme in Edinburgh this season?
ANDY NEWPORT: It will be close, but due to Heart’s January dealings, they may just manage to clinch it. However, this month still offers Hibs the opportunity to make some moves and prove me wrong.

CRAIG SWAN: Hearts are making some solid moves in this window and could potentially edge it. However, Hibs are also progressing well, and it will be close.

KEITH JACKSON: It’s a difficult decision. To be frank, both are struggling this season, but with just three points separating them, everything is still to play for until May. Regardless, they don’t have much to brag about. MICHAEL GANNON: It will be a good tussle, and Hearts have re-entered the fray with some new signings. However, Hibs are in form and can fend off their rivals.

Will Simo Valakari rescue St Johnstone?
ANDY NEWPORT: While it may not be this season, I believe the Finn has demonstrated enough to warrant his retention for next year’s rebuilding effort in Perth.

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