Scottish fitba is back.
Defending champions Celtic head into the season looking to make history by winning their tenth consecutive league title, while Steven Gerrard’s Rangers are out to prove that they can stoke the flames of the eternal Old Firm divide and finally dethrone their fierce rivals.
It’s not all about the ensuing battle for dominance in Glasgow, however, as there was plenty of excitement across the board last term. As we head into the new season, there are a number of talented players in the process of making a name for themselves.
With this campaign set to be one of the most hotly contested in years, here’s a look at five players who could make the difference for their respective sides.
Porteous broke into the Hibs side a few seasons ago and immediately rose to attention as a powerful unit in the heart of defence.
His tough tackling, no-nonsense style has earned the respect of the Hibees faithful, becoming a fan-favourite at Easter Road. A strong run of form saw him called up to the national team before an unfortunate spell of injuries halted his progression.
The 21-year-old central defender is now fully fit and featured prominently in Hibernian’s opening day win over Kilmarnock. If Porteous can stay healthy, he will be a future star for both club and country.
The nephew of Rangers all-time great Barry Ferguson, there are similarities in style to his esteemed uncle. Lewis is a box-to-box midfielder with great footballing IQ and an engine to match. It must be in the genes.
Having made the switch to Pittodrie at the start of the 2018/19 season, Ferguson has developed into a key player for Derek McInnes’ side, making 62 senior appearances for the Dons despite being just 20 years old.
His efforts in central midfield last season won him the SFWA Young Player of the Year award, and we can’t wait to see what he can do this time around.
Turnbull burst on to the scene in the 2018/19 season, scoring 15 goals in 31 appearances from midfield.
His efforts prompted a bid from champions Celtic, only for it all to come crashing down when the 21-year-old picked up a career threatening knee injury.
Turnbull featured just twice last season as he effectively had to learn to walk again. Now back fully fit and raring to go, the attacking midfielder is determined to emulate the majestic form that saw him shoot to fame in Scotland.
Since his induction into the Rangers first team in January, Hagi’s presence has revitalised the Gers’ squad.
A strong runner and deft shooter, Hagi is just as capable of scoring as he is setting up his teammates. There’s an element of expectation at Ibrox when he’s on the ball, such is his direct playing style.
After a strong showing in the second half of last season, we’re looking forward to seeing what he can offer as Rangers continue their long hunt for domestic silverware.
Since featuring for Celtic’s Under-20s at just 13 years old some four years ago, Dembele’s name has mustered a fair amount of attention among the Celtic faithful.
We caught a glimpse of what he is capable of through a few teasing substitute appearances last season. Now though, the 17-year-old is on the cusp of the first team having featured regularly in Celtic’s pre-season tour.
The skilful winger’s meteoric rise to fame through his performances in Celtic’s academy has undoubtedly added a weight of expectation. With more senior appearances expected this term, the stage is set for Dembele to show his true potential.