Neil Lennon is going to face his biggest challenge as the interim manager as Celtic take on Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup semi-final at the Hampden Park. The pressure on Lennon was always going to be less in the Premiership given the points cushion that Celtic had when Rodgers departed for Leicester City.
Therefore he could be judged based on whether he can deliver the Scottish Cup or not. Lennon is being considered as one of the frontrunners for the permanent job at Parkhead, and this game is going to be a big test for him.
Celtic have already faced Aberdeen under Lennon this season in March, and the Dons came out with a well-deserved point. So we expect an evenly match contest as Aberdeen would look to push to earn a silverware this season.
Team News
Kieran Tierney is expected to be back. Daniel Arzani and Eboue Kouassi are long term absentees. Dedryck Boyata might have played his last game for Celtic as he is expected to miss the rest of the season. Apart from that, Lennon should have a fully fit squad to choose from here.
Celtic predicted lineup vs Aberdeen
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Scott Bain is a nailed on starter in goal for the Hoops. He should be protected by the centre back pairing of Kristoffer Ajer and Filip Benkovic. Mikael Lustig has seemingly won back his place on the right back spot, and he is expected to start ahead of Jeremy Toljan. The return of Kieran Tierney should be a major boost for Lennon, and he would be in his usual left-back role.
Midfield
Scott Brown would look to get his hands on another silverware, and he is expected to start in a conservative role in midfield. Callum McGregor should edge out Olivier Ntcham to start in this crucial game as Brown’s midfield partner.
Tom Rogic looked rusty in the last game, but he should start given the gamechanger he is. He should start in the attacking midfield role. James Forrest is a nailed on starter down the right flank. Lennon hasn’t preferred Scott Sinclair much in the last few games, and we feel that he is likely to be on the bench. Ryan Christie can get the nod to start down the left flank.
Attack
Oliver Burke has tapered off in the last few games, and there is no doubt in our mind that Odsonne Edouard would lead the line in this all-important semi-final clash.
