Celtic´s South Korean stars to miss Rangers clash

South Korea stars Cha Du-ri and Ki Sung-yueng will miss Celtic’s Old Firm clash with Rangers on January 2 because of international commitments.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon had been trying to keep the pair for an extra week so they could play in the crucial fixture against the Scottish champions at Ibrox.

But Lennon has confirmed Cha and Ki will fly home to prepare for the Asian Cup after Celtic’s Scottish Premier League clash against St Johnstone on Sunday.

Lennon said: “It’s a huge blow because the two of them have been very influential this season.

“Ki has made massive strides this season and Cha has been very consistent.

“They have played the majority of games so they will be a big loss.”