Celtic veteran James Forrest is preparing for his 38th Old Firm derby as Celtic face Rangers in a League Cup quarter-final match at Ibrox on Sunday. Having made his derby debut 15 years ago, Forrest brings extensive experience to a team that includes several summer signings who could start the high-profile fixture.
Forrest, 35, made his first appearance in the Glasgow derby in January 2011 during a 2-0 victory at Ibrox, and has since played in 37 derbies, winning 24. Despite his familiarity with the fixture, Forrest said the intensity of the matches remains significant, noting that the game continues to attract a global audience and substantial attention from fans and players alike.
Ahead of the cup tie, Forrest and fellow veterans Callum McGregor and Kieran Tierney have been helping new recruits such as Colombian striker Camilo Duran, record signing Kasper Hogh, and German midfielder Mika Baur acclimate to the unique atmosphere of Old Firm matches. Forrest acknowledged that the new players have studied past derbies and understand their significance, adding that the newcomers have settled well after away victories at St Mirren and St Johnstone earlier in the season.
The match at Ibrox will be played without Celtic supporters due to security restrictions, presenting an additional challenge for the visitors. Forrest described the cup fixture as a chance for Celtic to assert themselves early in the season and emphasized the importance of the contest irrespective of the stage of the campaign.
Forrest is expected to feature off the bench, with young Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan likely starting on the wing. Forrest praised Hassan’s pace, dribbling, and ability to trouble defenders, describing him as a promising talent who is still developing consistency and confidence.
Speaking about the build-up to the match, Forrest said that a recent midweek victory over St Johnstone provided a positive distraction from pre-derby nerves. He added that the physical and emotional intensity of Old Firm games can be draining but remains a cherished part of his Celtic career.
The teams will meet again in a league fixture at Celtic Park the following Sunday, with Forrest noting that all encounters between the rivals carry significant weight. While the cup quarter-final represents a critical opportunity to progress to the semi-finals at Hampden, the league matches will also be pivotal in what is expected to be a tightly contested season.
Forrest remains motivated to contribute to the team’s success and stressed his commitment to working hard to maintain his place and assist younger teammates. As one of Celtic’s longest-serving players, he aims to help the squad navigate the challenges of both the derby and the broader campaign ahead.