While the traditional Boxing Day Premiership fixtures aren’t on this year, 27 December still promises plenty of drama, including title-deciding clashes and relegation battles.

Key Matches

• Hibernian vs Hearts (12:30 GMT) – The Edinburgh derby remains the standout fixture. Hearts have the chance to go nine points clear at the top if they win and Celtic slip up against Livingston. Hibs aim to climb closer to Rangers in fourth, making it a pivotal clash.
• Rangers vs Motherwell – Fourth vs third at Ibrox, with Motherwell unbeaten in their last 10 league games.
• Celtic vs Livingston – Defending champions visit the bottom club, with Reo Hatate expected to lead Celtic’s attack after returning from illness.
• Other fixtures: Kilmarnock at St Mirren, Dundee vs Falkirk, Aberdeen vs Dundee United.

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Player to Watch: Reo Hatate (Celtic)

Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate has created more chances from open play than any other player in the Premiership this season (26) and ranks second for expected assists among wingers.

• Key stats: 3.2 expected assists from open play
• Role: Central to Wilfried Nancy’s new 3-4-3 system as one of two number 10s
• Recent form: Scored in the Premier Sports Cup final and contributed in all three league matches under Nancy

Hatate’s creativity will be crucial if Celtic are to close the gap on Hearts and maintain their push for the title.

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Manager in the Spotlight: Jens Berthel Askou (Motherwell)

Since joining Motherwell, Jens Berthel Askou has impressed with a possession-based style despite a limited budget.

• Highlights:
  • Unbeaten in last 10 league matches
  • Six consecutive clean sheets
  • Only 15 goals conceded all season (bettered only by Celtic and Hearts)
• Key players: Elliot Watt (midfield), Elijah Just (wing), Tawanda Maswanhise (attack)

Motherwell are showing their best defensive form in a top-flight campaign since 1931–32. Their solidity could make them a tough challenge for Rangers at Ibrox.

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Edinburgh Derby History

• Hearts won the first derby of the season in October with a 91st-minute goal by Craig Halkett
• Saturday’s clash marks 150 years and two days since the first Edinburgh derby

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What to Expect

• Hearts look to strengthen their title bid and continue momentum into 2026
• Hibs aim to close the gap on the top four
• Rangers face a resilient Motherwell defense, making their attacking efficiency crucial
• Celtic rely on Hatate’s creativity to maintain offensive consistency