Samaras partners Maloney up front for Celtic

Shaun Maloney and Georgios Samaras formed Celtic’s strike force for the Old Firm clash at Parkhead.

Regular partners Scott McDonald and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink were out with groin and leg injuries respectively, although the Dutchman did make the bench.

Gary Caldwell recovered from a thigh injury to take over from Glenn Loovens in defence.

Ibrox boss Walter Smith sprung a surprise by bringing in Daniel Cousin to lead his attack.

The Gabon striker has been out the picture since featuring as a late substitute against Falkirk on the opening day. New signing Maurice Edu, who arrived late in the week after being signed from Toronto FC, was on the bench.

Celtic: Boruc, Hinkel, Caldwell, McManus, Wilson, Nakamura, Hartley, Scott Brown, McGeady, Maloney, Samaras.

Subs: Mark Brown, Vennegoor of Hesselink, Crosas, Robson, Loovens, Hutchinson, O’Dea.

Rangers: McGregor, Broadfoot, Weir, Bougherra, Papac, Davis, Pedro Mendes, Thomson, Adam, Cousin, Miller.

Subs: Alexander, Edu, Novo, Dailly, Lafferty, Niguez, McMillan.

Referee: D McDonald (Scotland)