The stage is set for a massive showdown at Hampden Park! As Celtic prepares to face their arch-rivals Rangers in the 2026 Scottish Cup semi-final, caretaker manager Martin O'Neill is facing a classic selection headache. Should he ride the wave of momentum with the red-hot Johnny Kenny, or does the experience and proven track record of Daizen Maeda demand an immediate return to the starting XI? This isn't just about a lineup; it's a decision that could define the mood for the rest of the season and secure a coveted spot in the final.

O'Neill's biggest test since stepping back into the hot seat is here. Facing a Rangers side also under new management with Danny Rohl, a win would do more than just book a final ticket—it would be a massive statement after the turbulent end to Brendan Rodgers' second spell. Talk about pressure! All eyes are on who will lead the line for the Hoops.

Right now, the man with all the momentum is undoubtedly Johnny Kenny. The Irish youngster, who just started his second league game of the season, absolutely balled out in the midweek 4-0 win over Falkirk. It was a performance that screamed 'play me!' and has fans buzzing. He's shown clear improvement with each appearance and is riding a serious confidence high. Kenny will believe, and many fans do too, that he's earned the right to start this crunch clash on Sunday. He’s been described as "absolutely brilliant" and seems ready to embrace being the Old Firm hero from the get-go.

On the other side of the coin, we have Daizen Maeda. The Japanese speedster is back in the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury, making a cameo off the bench against Falkirk. O'Neill has been clear that Maeda remains the team's "talisman," and his record against Rangers is seriously impressive: 5 goals and 5 assists in 21 games. That's not a stat you just ignore. However, the big question is: does he need to be rushed back into the starting lineup? The smart money might say no. His sub appearance was about getting back up to speed, not necessarily a signal he's ready for 90 intense minutes against the Gers.

So, what's the move, gaffer? Here’s the breakdown of O'Neill's options:

Option 1: Start Kenny, Bench Maeda

• Pros: Rewards form, maintains positive momentum, gives Kenny a huge confidence boost on the big stage.

• Cons: Benches a proven Old Firm performer. Might lack Maeda's relentless energy from the start.

• Verdict: The high-risk, high-reward play. It shows faith in youth and form.

Option 2: Start Maeda, Bench Kenny

• Pros: Experience, known threat to Rangers, immediate high-press energy.

• Cons: Disrupts Kenny's rhythm, risks Maeda's fitness, could be seen as overly cautious.

• Verdict: The safe, experienced choice. But is it the most inspiring?

Option 3: A Tactical Shuffle?

Could Maeda slot in on the right? Technically yes, but that would mean displacing James Forrest, who has been more effective in that role recently. This seems like a solution that creates another problem.

The most likely and sensible scenario is a hybrid approach. Start Kenny. Let the young gun, full of confidence, take the fight to Rangers from the first whistle. Then, unleash a (hopefully) fit and fired-up Maeda in the second half. Imagine the scene: tired Rangers legs, and on comes a fresh Maeda with his insane engine and a point to prove. That's a nightmare for any defense. This plan gives O'Neill the best of both worlds—capitalizing on current form and having a lethal weapon in reserve.

This is the kind of "happy headache" managers dream of. Having two quality options vying for one spot is a sign of a healthy squad. For Celtic fans, it bodes well for the rest of 2026. A big win at Hampden, fueled by the right tactical call, could be the catalyst for a strong finish to the season. Will O'Neill go with the hot hand or the seasoned pro? One thing's for sure, this Old Firm clash just got even more spicy. Buckle up, folks. This is gonna be lit! 🔥

• Kenny's Form: Rising star, full of confidence after a stellar performance.

• Maeda's Pedigree: Proven Old Firm performer with a stellar record against Rangers.

• O'Neill's Call: A decision that balances momentum with experience, potentially defining his caretaker spell.

The Hampden Park atmosphere will be electric, and this selection saga adds another layer of drama to Scotland's biggest fixture. Let's see who gets the nod to lead the line in this epic semi-final battle!