Hi °C | Lo °C Celtic winger Niall McGinn is hoping for a dramatic comeback from injury by making his Old Firm debut this weekend.
McGinn has yet to feature for the Hoops this season, after battling back to fitness following five months on the sidelines with a broken metatarsal.
He played in Northern Ireland's games against Italy and the Faroe Islands, as well as a friendly against Falkirk in midweek and the 23-year-old has told boss Neil Lennon he is ready for action.
And McGinn believes Sunday's derby would be the ideal occasion to finally put his injury woes behind him.
"It's always good when a derby match against Rangers comes around," said McGinn.
"Every time the fixtures come out, it's probably the first one I look for. I've been on the bench at one of the games, but have still to play in one.
"Hopefully, come Sunday, I am on the bench again and with a bit of luck I will get some game-time.
"If I get the opportunity to play, I'll just enjoy every minute of it but, more important, is having a win at the end of it."
Celtic and Rangers head into the game locked on the same points at the top of the Scottish Premier League, with both clubs boasting 100% records and McGinn is well aware of the importance of a victory this weekend.
He said: "It's a massive thing. Both teams are in good form.
"I'm just looking forward to the match and hopefully I get the opportunity to play."
As well as his involvement with the national team, McGinn netted twice in the 3-0 win over Falkirk at Westfield on Tuesday.
He said: "I was delighted to get back scoring again and get my confidence back.
"I was also glad the manager was there watching and he seemed pleased after the game.
"So I enjoyed it and to get another 90 minutes under my belt and score two goals was pleasing as well.
"I felt good throughout the game and I was also glad to see Paddy McCourt score as well. Hopefully we'll both be in contention come the Rangers game at the weekend."
