Celtic can move seven points clear at the top of the Premiership with a victory over Falkirk at the Falkirk Stadium, a chance manager Martin O'Neill's side will be keen to take while their direct rivals are in cup action.
Falkirk, one of the division's form teams, have already caused Celtic problems this season. John McGlynn's side have won three straight top-flight games for the first time since 2007 and ran the Hoops close back in August.
Celtic's recent form
The champions have not been at their best lately. Since a 7-1 win over Hearts, they have lost in Europe, edged a narrow victory against Hibs, and dropped points against Dundee United.
A win for Celtic would extend their lead over Rangers to seven points with a game more played, increasing pressure on their rivals. For Falkirk, a positive result could lift them as high as fourth in the table, their best position since returning to the top flight.
McGlynn's confidence
McGlynn, who has yet to take a point from Celtic since Falkirk's return to the Premiership, remains hopeful. He told club media: "We've been getting closer and closer to Celtic. You can never take anything for granted. We saw them get a 7-1 victory against Hearts a couple of Sundays ago. So we've got to be careful."
He added: "But we go into the game off the back of three straight wins which we didn't manage last season. We go into the game confident. We've got a really strong mentality, we're not conceding many goals. We'll have to be organised and solid."
Hassan's European hopes
Celtic attacker Haissem Hassan is focused on the league but also has one eye on Thursday's Europa League clash with Besiktas, with Celtic yet to record a win after three group games. Hassan said: "We still have five games to go. A win over Besiktas would give us hope and confidence."
"If we win the rest of the games or get as many points as possible, we definitely hope we can qualify for the next stage," he continued. "We are struggling a bit now. But we can improve and we'll try to play in the best way."
Kick-off at the Falkirk Stadium is set for 11:00 GMT, with the champions aiming to stretch their lead at the top of the table.
