After winning 2-1 away at Partick Thistle, Celtic are due to host Hibernian at the Celtic Park on Saturday in their next Scottish Premiership fixture. Brendan Rodgers would be bereft of the services of Marvin Compper, Jonny Hayes, Patrick Roberts, Tom Rogic and Anthony Ralston as are sidelined with an injury.
Here is how we expect the Celts to line-up against Neil Lennon’s troops.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
Craig Gordon is expected to be handed the gloves and stationed between the sticks once again. The Scottish international has been stupendous for the Bhoys and would be keen to add yet another clean sheet to his name in the upcoming fixture.
Kieran Tierney is seemingly likely to be one of the first names to be pencilled by Rodgers in the starting line-up. The left-back has been exemplary in his defensive as well as offensive endeavours and should make his presence felt once again. At the right-back slot, we expect to see Mikael Lustig, as his experience could be valuable at the back for Celtic.
At the heart of the defence of the reigning Scottish top-flight champions, we expect to see the duo comprising of Kristoffer Ajer and Dedryck Boyata. While Ajer is still in his learning years, Boyata could render his leadership and expertise to marshall the troops at the back.
Midfield
Scott Brown should once again find a place in the middle of the park. Brown has been the engine room for Celtic for quite some time now and alongside him, a skilful midfielder in the shape of Olivier Ntcham would be a sensible choice. These two not only have the calibre to shield the backline but have the inclination to push their side forward as well.
The duties of the no.10 role are seemingly likely to be shouldered by Callum McGregor. McGregor does have the cutting edge and attacking prowess to rattle the defence of the opposition and he would be looking forward to yet another start to display his offensive talents.
Attack
Moussa Dembele is expected to lead the attacking arsenal of the Hoops. The Frenchman has struggled with injuries this season but his pace, power and exuberance make him a useful asset for his current employers.
At the left-wing, Scott Sinclair is likely to get the nod to start by the former Liverpool manager. He has smashed 9 goals in 21 appearances in the league already and would look to increase his tally. From the other wing, James Forrest could be seen to aid Dembele in the offensive endeavours of Celtic.
This is how their lineup might look in their next outing:
