Celtic will restart their quest for glory after suffering a crucial defeat to Rangers before the mini winter break. The Hoops will travel to the Firhill Stadium to take on Patrick Thistle in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup. Lennon’s men have already bagged the League Cup title this season, and they would look to continue with their domination.
Patrick Thistle are struggling in the Championship as they are seated on the 9th spot. The two sides have already met each other this season as Celtic squared off with Patrick Thistle in the quarter-finals of the League Cup and they ran out 5-0 winners. The reigning Scottish champions would undoubtedly go in as the favourites again.
Team News: Hatem Abd Elhamed is facing a fresh injury issue, and he could miss out for a few more weeks. Michael Johnston is also struggling with an injury. Tom Rogic is nearing a return, and he might be ready to feature.
Celtic Predicted Lineup vs Patrick Thistle
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Craig Gordon will likely start in between the sticks for this game in place of Fraser Forster. Scott Bain could also be in contention, but we are going in with Gordon.
Nir Bitton might get the chance to start this tie in defence. He is likely to be partnered by Kristoffer Ajer in central defence. Jonny Hayes can get the nod to start at left-back in this encounter. Moritz Bauer should feature in the right-back role in place of Jeremie Frimpong.
Midfield
Scott Brown will likely get a start in the defensive midfield role. Callum McGregor should play in his usual midfield role where he would look to dictate the game by moving the ball forward.
Mohamed Elyounoussi could get the chance to feature on the left flank for the Hoops. The Norwegian was in great form before injury brought him down. He would look to start the second half of the season well. Olivier Ntcham grabbed two goals when he featured against Patrick Thistle earlier this season in the League Cup. He could start in the attacking midfield slot. James Forrest has played as an inverted winger in some of the games so far, but he might get back to the right-wing position for this cup tie.
Attack
Leigh Griffiths might get the chance to lead the line in this clash. Odsonne Edouard could be rested given his overall importance. New signing Patryk Klimala could feature on the bench.
