Mark Wilson reckons Celtic's League Cup triumph was won in the midfield battle with Michael Beale getting his big call wrong at Hampden.
The Rangers boss opted to leave January signings Nicolas Raskin and Todd Cantwell on the bench and call on Malik Tillman and John Lundstram from the start. Both missed the win over Livingston at the Tony Macaroni Arena the week before the Old Firm showdown and had only come through a couple days training prior to the showpiece.
Both new recruits have made promising starts to life in Govan and have shown enough but the Ibrox gaffer opted to put his trust elsewhere. It was a decision in the end that backfired with his changes coming too late in the game. Ex-Celtic star Wilson belives his former club claimed victory due to their domination in the middle of the park.
READ MORE: Alfredo Morelos' Rangers vs Celtic sub rage fury in focus as Barry Ferguson reacts to Hampden moment
Wilson told Sky Sports: “I was certainly surprised Raskin and Cantwell weren’t in from the start. They have both looked good since they have come to the club.
“The talk all week was of injuries to Tillman, Lundstram and Jack and I just thought it was a gamble that didn’t pay off.
“I thought the game was won in the midfield area with Mooy, Hatate and McGregor outstanding and both Lundstram and Tillman looking a bit leggy.
“He made the changes, but by that time it was too late.
“It was a big call. The big difference is Ange Postecoglou shows faith in his signings and Michael Beale didn’t on the big stage.”
Kyogo Furuhashi was the hero as his double secured a 2-1 win. The holders had a two goal advantage before Alfredo Morelos pulled one back. However, it didn't prove to be enough as Postecoglou and Co keep their Treble dreams alive and kicking.
READ NEXT:
- Carl Starfelt posts four word Celtic statement as he watches back League Cup win over Rangers
- Ange Postecoglou in 'any chance of a lift to Celtic Park' quip after Celtic's win over Rangers
- One-time Rangers man Lassana Coulibaly scores Serie A stunner as Salernitana boost survival hopes
- Michael Beale offers honest Rangers assessment as he admitted 'Celtic deserved to win the game'
