Celtic winger Niall McGinn is hoping for a dramatic comeback from injury by making his Old Firm debut in this weekend's much-anticipated clash with Rangers.
McGinn has yet to feature for the Hoops this season, after battling back to fitness following five months on the sidelines with a broken metatarsal. He played in Northern Ireland's games against Italy and the Faroe Islands, as well as a friendly against Falkirk in midweek.
"It's always good when a derby match against Rangers comes around," said McGinn. "Every time the fixtures come out, it's probably the first one I look for. I've been on the bench at one of the games but have still to play in one. Hopefully, come Sunday, I am on the bench again and with a bit of luck I will get some game-time."
He added: "It would be unbelievable. I grew up watching the Glasgow derby, so the opportunity to play in one would be unbelievable.
"If I get the opportunity to play, I'll just enjoy every minute of it but, more important, is having a win at the end of it."
Celtic and Rangers head into the game locked on the same points at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League, with both clubs boasting 100% records in the league so far, and McGinn is well aware of the importance of a victory this weekend.
He said: "It's a massive thing. Both teams are in good form.
"I felt on Sunday we deserved to win against Dundee United, we were the better team, and it was good to see Gary Hooper get some goals as well.
"I'm just looking forward to the match and hopefully I get the opportunity to play."
Source: PA
