Rangers and Celtic swerve personnel headache as Japan vs USA shifted to ease Champions League fears

Both Celtic and Rangers have been granted a boosted with news some of their stars will no longer need to travel to Japan next month.

Key men from both sides of the Old Firm were due to travel to East Asia for the Kirin Cup - an annual tournament featuring Japan, USA and Ecuador. But now the competition will take place in Germany instead. Japan and the USA meet each other on September 23 and the match will now be played in Dusseldorf.

Celtic stars such as Kyogo and Maeda are regulars for their international side, with Reo Hatate also a possibility. Cameron Carter-Vickers may also called upon by the US side, while Rangers loan duo James Sands and Malik Tillman will likely take part. Following the location switch, which helps the players avoid a round-trip to the other side of the world, is sure to be a welcome boost for both Glasgow sides who will be keen to keep their players in tip top stage for their busy schedules during the next couple of months.

The Hoops play in the Champions League on September 13 or 14 before domestic duties against St Mirren on the 17th. Gio van Bronckhorst''s men also have a busy period facing Dundee United on September 18 as well as the possibility of Champions League action or a Europa League tie at the very least before the international break.

Both teams the return to domestic action on October 1 before European matches kicking back in the following week.

READ NEXT