Celtic lead the group E in the Europa League after first two round of fixtures. Next, they will host Italian heavyweights Lazio at Celtic Park on Thursday. The Hoops are coming on the back of a thumping win over Ross County which took them on the top of the table on goal difference after Rangers dropped points against Hearts.
Lazio were supposed to be the dominant side in this group, but they currently sit on the third spot. However, all the four teams are in with a shout to move to the knockout phase, and the third round of fixtures are probably going to be the most defining ones. Simone Inzaghi’s side are coming on the back of a heroic draw against Atlanta after they were 3-0 down. It’s tough to pick who might go in as the favourite, and we are all expecting an intriguing game at Parkhead.
Team News: Leigh Griffiths is back in training, and he could be included in the matchday squad. Michael Johnston is expected to miss out again. Jozo Simunovic is unlikely to play any time soon this year. Scott Bain is out with a hand injury.
Hatem Abd Elhamed has recovered from his injury setback, and he should be available. Olivier Ntcham’s situation could be touch and go after he rolled his ankle in training recently, which saw him miss the last league tie.
Celtic Predicted Lineup Vs Lazio
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Fraser Forster will continue as the first-choice goalkeeper. Kristoffer Ajer should start at the back along with summer signing Christopher Jullien who has settled in well. Elhamed sat out the weekend’s game, but he was on the bench. He is expected to start at right-back. The left-back spot is likely to be occupied by Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo.
Midfield
Club captain Scott Brown will start in a defensive midfield role. Brown has done well overall, but he has been found wanting on occasions in the European games. Hopefully, he will have a good match from Celtic’s point of view. Callum McGregor is expected to partner him in the middle.
Ryan Christie will likely start as the attacking midfielder. He should be fresh as he missed the league game because of suspension. Mohamed Elyounoussi is slowly getting into his element, and he will be expected to start on the left with Johnston still missing. Scottish international James Forrest will be a nailed-on starter on the right flank.
Attack
Griffiths might be available, but Odsonne Edouard will lead the line for the Hoops once again.
