Key Cup Battles DUFFY BOYCE

Shane Duffy is hoping to complete the transition from bomb scare to bombshell. After scoring in his first two appearances, the Republic of Ireland skipper went to pieces.

Left out by Neil Lennon for his own good, he’s returned with a bang, striking up a decent partnership with Christopher Jullien.

Hearts’ top scorer will be looking to take advantage of any nerves Duffy shows. Liam Boyce will relish the physical challenge from Duffy and the 29-year-old will look to use his experience to time his runs and get goal side of the defender when those crosses come in.

BROWN NAISMITH

Lennon’s future as Celtic boss could depend on how his decision to start with Scott Brown goes after Ismaila Soro, his likely successor, turned in dynamic displays in the wins over Lille and Killie.

The 35-year-old is still a big influence and he’ll be asked to nip Hearts’ attacks in the bud. This will be his 15th major cup final and he’s won all five of his previous finals in this competition.

Steven Naismith has six winner’s medals from his time at Ibrox. The 34-year-old likes to get stuck in and, if previous history is anything to go by, his tussles with Brown seem certain to lead to cards being issued by ref John Beaton.

ELYOUNOUSSI SMITH

Norwegian wide man Moi Elyounoussi splits the Celtic support between those who admire his finishing and those who feel he flatters to deceive.

He’s Celtic’s leading scorer with 13 goals and will be desperate to make a bigger impact than in last year’s Betfred Cup Final win over Rangers, when he was hooked due to injury.

Northern Ireland full-back Michael Smith has been consistently good and should be playing at a higher level.

He can prove that by shutting down his opponent and ensuring that he doesn’t add to his goal tally.