Officials and VAR confirmed as Celtic take on Hearts in the Scottish Premiership

Celtic continue their Scottish Premiership title pursuit this weekend as Heart of Midlothian Travel to Parkhead on Saturday.

Brendan Rodgers has led his side to hold a three-point advantage at the summit, which they could extend to six by claiming a priceless victory against Steven Naismith’s outfit.

Last weekend, James Forrest was the hero for Celtic, scoring a brace in a 2-1 victory over Dundee on Tayside, where they had to soak up a fair amount of pressure from the home side in the second half.

On a positive note, Japan international Daizen Maeda could be back in contention for this weekend if he can stave off a hamstring problem, though we will find out later this week in Rodgers’ upcoming press conference.

At this stage in the campaign, it is hard to envisage the Irishman making too many changes to his starting line-up; however, club captain Callum McGregor hasn’t completed a full 90 minutes since returning from injury against Rangers earlier this month, signifying his fitness will need to be monitored [Transfermarkt].

Hearts come into this one needing two points to rubber stamp third place and also have the upper hand in the previous three fixtures between the two sides, claiming two victories to Celtic’s solitary triumph at Tynecastle.

With the action commencing at 3 p.m. on Saturday, the Hoops will be welcomed by a sold-out Parkhead crowd as they look to take one step closer to Scottish Premiership title glory.

Officials and VAR confirmed as Celtic gear up to take on Hearts

As we edge closer to matchday, the officiating team and VAR operatives have now been confirmed for Celtic vs Hearts this weekend.

In pole position, Kevin Clancy will be the whistle-blower for the clash. He will be supported by Daniel McFarlane and Chris Rae, who are set to run either line [Scottish FA].

Nick Walsh has been appointed as the main VAR operative at Parkhead. Gary Hilland is also on hand if any contentious moments require a second pair of eyes. Lastly, Colin Steven is the fourth official on this occasion.

Celtic know nothing less than three points will do on Saturday, given there is a chance to apply real pressure on Rangers by racing six points ahead before our city rivals face Kilmarnock the following day.

Hopefully, Rodgers’ men can put on a stirring performance and claim three points in front of a capacity home support. Come on the Hoops!