Celtic are back to winning ways in the league after a soul-crushing derby defeat just before the winter break. The Hoops secured a 3-1 win against Kilmarnock, and they will host Ross County next at Celtic Park this weekend. Ross County are winless in their last four games in the league, and they are coming into this game on the back of a 0-0 draw against Hearts.
Celtic have already squared off with Ross County twice this season, and the Hoops won both the games with an aggregate score of 10-1. It is fair to say that Ross County would have their task cut out again and the Bhoys will go in as the clear favourites for this tie.
Team News: Celtic are going through an injury crisis, but some of the players are close to returning. James Forrest might be available for this weekend’s encounter after missing out since the derby game. Ryan Christie is still suspended.
Nir Bitton is also expected to be out for two more weeks. Hatem Abd Elhamed’s injury isn’t as bad as it was initially thought, but he still doesn’t have a fixed return date. Michael Johnston is back fit. Mohamed Elyounoussi is still on the treatment table.
4-2-3-1 Celtic Predicted Lineup Vs Ross County
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Lennon had to use the 3-5-2 formation in the last few games, but they haven’t been as fluent as they can be. They might revert to a more familiar 4-2-3-1 with the injury crisis slightly easing out.
Defence
Fraser Forster is set to feature in between the sticks again. Kristoffer Ajer and Christopher Jullien could partner each in the centre back role. Jozo Simunovic might have to miss out. Jeremie Frimpong will be in the right-back position. Jonny Hayes might get the nod to start at left-back.
Midfield
Scott Brown will play in his usual defensive midfield role. He is likely to be partnered by Callum McGregor who will look to dictate the play in attacking areas.
Michael Johnston might get a chance to start on the left flank now that he is fit after he played a cameo against Kilmarnock. Olivier Ntcham could get the nod to start in the attacking midfielder’s role. James Forrest could make a return to the starting eleven, and he might feature on the right-wing.
Attack
Leigh Griffiths got himself on the score sheet against Kilmarnock, but Odsonne Edouard is likely to get the nod to lead the line for the Hoops.
