Celtic seems to be back on track at least in the domestic circuit, but they still need a big performance if they harbour hopes of getting out of their Europa League group. They will next take on German heavyweights RB Leipzig at Celtic Park, and Brendan Rodgers knows that without a positive result in this tie, it could be curtains for the Hoops in Europe.
Last season’s Europa League quarter-finalist showed their class as they inflicted a 2-0 defeat on the Glaswegian giants when they met the first time at the Red Bull Arena. However, we expect the Bhoys to put up a better show especially at home, and we think the return leg should be much evenly contested.
Team News
Rodgers is going through a significant injury crisis especially in midfield. Scott Brown, Eboue Kouassi and Olivier Ntcham all are likely to miss out the tie. Youssouf Mulmubu could be back in contention after he started training since last Thursday but he still needs to put in some work as he didn’t feature in the matchday squad against Hearts at the weekend. Jozo Simunovic and Leigh Griffiths are also going to miss out due to injury.
Celtic’s Predicted Lineup vs RB Leipzig
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Craig Gordon continues to be no.1 in goal, and he should keep his place. The defensive pair of Filip Benkovic and Dedryck Boyata have looked solid off late, but their real test would be in this tie against their German rivals. Down the left, Kieran Tierney is a nailed on starter. This season the youngster has failed to bring his top game every week, but he should be pumped up for this tie at Park Head. Mikael Lustig remains the likely choice for the right-back role even though his performances have been below par this season.
Midfield
With so many injuries in midfield, Rodgers’ hands are tied. He would hope that he can have Youssouf Mulumbu up and running by the time this tie arrives and we believe he would be an important player as he is the only defensive midfielder who is in contention to start. Australian international Tom Rogic could be his other partner in midfield. If Mulumbu isn’t available once again, one can see Ryn Christie in the lineup, but for now, we are assuming that the former Norwich City midfielder would be fit in time.
The attacking outlet from the left would be provided by Scott Sinclair, from the right by James Forrest and Callum McGregor should get a go-ahead in the no.10 role. However, don’t be surprised if McGregor and Rogic interchange their places in the lineup.
Attack
With no other alternative, Odsonne Edouard should continue to lead the line for the Bhoys. The striker has hit good form of late, and he needs to be at his clinical best in this game.
