Even after suffering from various injury issues, losing out in the Champions League qualifiers, Celtic showed that they might still be the team to beat this season again as they went past Rangers by winning 2-0 at Ibrox. Rangers were being built as the heavy favourites for this clash, but Lennon’s men were far more clinical and composed in their performances.
Celtic meanwhile needed to have a significant transfer window after the number of players that left the club this summer. They started slowly, but they have managed to bring in crucial players in the last few days. Some of them are just on loan signings so that would be disappointing. But they do seem well prepared for the ongoing season. Here is what their best eleven could look like.
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Fraser Forster and Scott Bain are likely to compete for the no. 1 spot in goal, and we think that Lennon might go in with the big man Forster in between the sticks. Christopher Jullien showed his worth in the Old Firm Derby, but he might have to wait to get regular chances once Jozo Simunovic and Kristoffer Ajer become fit. It’s a tough call, but Simunovic and Ajer have been quite consistent when they have played together since Lennon took over.
At right-back, its a competition between Hatem Abd Elhamed and Moritz Buer. Elhamed has done well so far, but we think that Bauer could be the better option once he settles in at the club.
Celtic wrapped up the signing of Greg Taylor in time, and he could start over Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo at left-back who has looked vulnerable defensively. Bolingoli might get the nod against teams where Celtic will be expected to dominate proceedings.
Midfield
Scott Brown and Callum McGregor are going to be obvious starters in the middle of the park for Lennon. Olivier Ntcham will have to miss out. Ryan Christie should get the nod to start in the attacking midfield position.
Michael Johnston has done well so far, but we feel that once Mohamed Elyounoussi settles in, he will be a regular on the left flank as a winger. It will be slightly harsh on Johnston who has caught the eye so far early on in the season. There are no doubts about who would start on the right as James Forrest is a nailed-on starter from there.
Attack
Leigh Griffiths is back available, but there is only one guy who would lead this Celtic line, and that is Odsonne Edouard.
