Celtic can reclaim top spot by stealing Kilmarnock’s scalp

Celtic, odds-on favourites at 3/10 with Coral to triumph, will likely arrive at Rugby Park in a bullish mood, after being denied the chance to practice on Kilmarnock’s new plastic pitch.

This clash will be the Bhoys’ first outing on Killie’s home turf since the synthetic surface was laid in summer, and the Glaswegian giants had hoped for a sneak preview.

The Scottish champions were given short shrift, however, which should make for a feisty atmosphere in East Ayrshire.

Kilmarnock may not have displayed sporting behaviour ahead of their duel with Celtic, but the home team have good reason to keep the Bhoys at bay, having lost all six of their last battles with the visitors.

Killie will be aiming to take any available advantage against a side who have beaten them an incredible 144 times in the league.

Ronny Deila’s team triumphed 2-0 in the reverse fixture earlier this term and are 5/1 to repeat that scoreline again on their travels.

Manchester City-owned attacker John Guidetti was on target last time these two teams met and is 10/3 to draw first blood once again. The Sweden striker has struck 11 times in 17 outings for the Bhoys, also contributing six assists.

The 22-year-old’s form will be key if Celtic are to break the deadlock, especially in the expected absence of strike partner Anthony Stokes.

This means one of Stefan Scepovic or Leigh Griffiths will be tasked with taking his place up top. Both are 7/2 to score last, but Serbia centre forward Scepovic could get the nod after scoring against Kilmarnock earlier this season.