Celtic grabbed their first win of 2021 as they humbled bottom-placed Hamilton Academical at Parkhead on Wednesday night. They, however, have little hope of clinching a historic ‘ten in a row’, but at the same time, must aim to finish the season stronger and close the gap at the top with bitter rivals Rangers. Having said that, a tricky test is awaiting for Celtic as they set to host impressive St. Mirren on Saturday afternoon.
The Hoops have lately regrouped themselves following the Dubai controversy. Gaffer Neil Lennon hailed his players for showing the right attitude versus the Accies and is hopeful of replicating the same in the upcoming fixtures. His job is on the line due to an array of dismal outcomes, but the Northern Irishman is not ready to give up yet, despite all the criticism and outrage among the supporters.
Predicted 4-4-2 Celtic Lineup To Face St. Mirren
Defence
Lennon is rotating his custodians frequently and the selection of Scott Bain ahead of both Vasilis Barkas and Conor Hazard is likely. Barkas, meanwhile, has been asked to improve his game by the manager and the ongoing contract conundrum of Hazard might see Bain retaining his place between the sticks for the Saints’ contest.
The sudden exit of Jeremie Frimpong (who has joined Bayer Leverkusen on permanent terms) is a massive blow for the Bhoys as they now have to rely upon versatile Kristoffer Ajer to slot in the right fullback role. The Norwegian is a more reliable option compared to Anthony Ralston or Hatem Abd Elhamed, but the shifting has left a void in the heart of the backline forcing the gaffer to line up Nir Bitton and Shane Duffy as the central defensive pairing. Youngster Stephen Welsh would be the third-choice centre-half amid the injury absence of Christopher Jullien. Greg Taylor has shown enough composure in recent weeks and is expected to operate from the left-hand side of Celtic’s four-man defence.
Midfield
Ismaila Soro is irreplaceable in the middle of the park as his ability to marshall the backline, break down opponents’ move and stage attacking threats from the deep would be crucial against the Buddies. The Ivorian must be accompanied by the ever-present Callum McGregor who would feature as their chief ball carrier. Mohamed Elyounoussi is enjoying a productive spell and should operate from his preferred wide midfield slot. David Turnbull, predominantly a ‘number 10’, is likely to start from the right-hand side but would offer his versatility if Lennon decides to alter his strategy and tweak the formation.
Attack
Both Leigh Griffiths and Odsonne Edouard found the net against Hamilton Academical and the Hoops will be counting on their prolific centre-forward duo to fire in at Celtic Park.
