Source: FOOTYMAD
Two Unbeaten Sides Meet In SPL
A recond will give way today as Celtic's wining and Hearts unbeaten start to the season cannot continue today Anthony Stokes could make his Celtic debut today in the game against Hearts at Parkhead. The Republic of Ireland international became Hoops manager Neil Lennon's 11th signing of the summer when he agreed a four-year deal. Striker Gary Hooper is still short of fitness but defenders Mark Wilson and Thomas Rogne are back in contention after recovering from knocks. Stokes is hoping for a goalscoring debut for Celtic against old foes Hearts. The former Hibs striker scored twice against the Gorgie men last season to help him become the Easter Road club's top scorer and earn a move to Parkhead. He scored in a 1-1 home draw and a penalty in a 2-1 defeat to their Edinburgh rivals at the same venue later in the season. And the striker is looking for another goal against the Tynecastle men if he is given his first opportunity in a Hoops shirt. He said: "The Hearts games were brilliant, there was always a great atmosphere and the lads were well up for it. I've been lucky enough to score a few goals against them so hopefully I can get a few more. I don't think I'm going to get a good reception (from the Hearts fans) but that's part and parcel of football.'' Lee Wallace and Marius Zaliukas (both injured) are unavailable so Jim Jefferies is about to hand Eggert Jonsson the captain's armband. Wallace is out for at least three months after tearing the posterior cruciate ligament in his knee playing for Scotland while talks over the future of Zaliukas, who also has a knee problem, continue. Stephen Elliott (hamstring) is still rated doubtful and the game comes too soon for Andrew Driver (knee), who has returned to light training. Calum Elliot, Gary Glen and David Obua are all in contention and Ruben Palazuelos is available again following suspension. Jefferies knows Hearts will have to be at their best to emerge from Parkhead with their unbeaten record intact. e said: "It will be a tough game. I've heard that the last time they played there they were on fire (beating St Mirren 4-0). They've had a couple of good victories there and they've got some good players who I think will get better and better. We've got to go there and be as positive as we can. We're not going to sit back - I think that's asking for trouble. We'll make sure we're well organised, tight, hopefully create a few chances and, more importantly, take them.'' Editor Ger Harley (ger@scottishfitba net)Admin Team (admin@scottishfitba net)This is Scottish-Fitba.Net
