Celtic have been dealt a blow with the news South Korea pair Cha Du-ri and Ki Sung-yueng will miss the Old Firm derby.
Manager Neil Lennon had been trying to secure special dispensation for the Asian Cup-bound pair to stay an extra week to play against Rangers at Ibrox on 2nd January.
But he has had to admit defeat and the duo will now will fly home to prepare for the tournament after the Hoops' Boxing Day clash with St Johnstone.
Lennon said: "It's a huge blow because the two of them have been very influential this season.
"Ki has made massive strides this season and Cha has been very consistent.
"They have played the majority of games so they will be a big loss."
The Asian Cup runs from 7th-29th January in Qatar and South Korea will begin their Group C campaign against Bahrain on 10th January.
Manager Neil Lennon had been trying to secure special dispensation for the Asian Cup-bound pair to stay an extra week to play against Rangers at Ibrox on 2nd January.
But he has had to admit defeat and the duo will now will fly home to prepare for the tournament after the Hoops' Boxing Day clash with St Johnstone.
Lennon said: "It's a huge blow because the two of them have been very influential this season.
"Ki has made massive strides this season and Cha has been very consistent.
"They have played the majority of games so they will be a big loss."
The Asian Cup runs from 7th-29th January in Qatar and South Korea will begin their Group C campaign against Bahrain on 10th January.
