Defending Scottish Premier League champions Celtic travel to Dundee United on Boxing Day fully aware that they are fast losing their grip on the title. Celtic drew 1-1 against Hibernian in their last live SPL match and are just three points ahead of Rangers who have three games in hand.

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan was disappointed with the draw in which managerless Hibs took an early lead thanks to David Murphy. It was only when substitute Jiri Jarosik's volley hit the net that Celtic could breathe a sign of relief.

For all their fantastic showing in the UEFA Champions League where they will take on Barcelona in the next round, Celtic have failed to impress in the domestic season. Over the last two months a string of mixed results have left the door open for the Gers to creep in.

Injuries have also played a part in Celtic's poor SPL campaign. Goalkeeper Artur Boruc is sidelined following a knee operation. He has targeted the Old Firm derby against Rangers on January 2 for his return, although he will need to pass a late fitness test.

Japanese winger Shunsuke Nakamuara is struggling with a nagging knee injury and has missed all action since late October. Meanwhile Aiden McGeady has raked up the disciplinary points and will be suspended for the crucial January 2 clash.

Scott McDonald is the top scorer for Celtic with 13 SPL goals. Celtic top the SPL table with 37 points from 18 games.

Dundee United on the other hand dropped crucial points in their last SPL clash against bottom placed Gretna when they crashed to a 1-2 defeat at home. Goals from Kenny Deuchar and Nicky Deverdics nullified Noel Hunt's strike to give Gretna some solace.

Dundee United manager Craig Levein was frustrated with his side's inability to close out the Gretna defence. The team is fourth on the SPL table with 29 points from 18 games.

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