Aberdeen confirm manager appointment during preparations for Celtic semi-final

Celtic fans will be excitedly warming up for a big week of action at the national stadium, where we take on Aberdeen for a place in the Scottish Cup final this Saturday.

For those spectating from home or out and about, fans will be able to watch all the action live on both BBC Scotland and Viaplay, depending on your preference.

With all the drama commencing at 12.30 pm, Celtic will be backed by a large following after selling out five separate sale phases issued to season ticket holders.

On the squad fitness front, Celtic will be without Daizen Maeda for the clash against the Dons; meanwhile, it is unclear whether Liam Scales is going to return from injury to face his former club.

In case the latter doesn’t make it, Maik Nawrocki would be the most likely candidate to partner Cameron Carter-Vickers in central defence.

Caretaker manager Peter Leven will lead out Aberdeen for the tie. The former MK Dons man was also in charge during our 1-1 draw at Pittodrie in early February.

Aberdeen announce new manager ahead of Celtic clash

Earlier today, Aberdeen officially ratified the appointment of Elfsborg manager Jimmy Thelin as their new manager amid preparations to face Celtic at Hampden.

The 46-year-old will start his new position this summer, joined by assistant coaches Christer Persson and Emir Bajrami. This will leave caretaker Leven in charge for the remainder of their current campaign.

News of Thelin’s announcement is bound to provide a lift in the North East ahead of facing Brendan Rodgers’ men; nevertheless, the Irishman is unlikely to be troubled by events outside Parkhead circles.

Celtic will continue working hard at Lennoxtown as they aim to reach the Scottish Cup final this weekend, potentially extending Rodgers’ impeccable record in the competition to 16 consecutive victories