Celtic registered their first win of the Ange Postecoglou era on Thursday night when they defeated Jablonec 4-2 in an engaging contest. A late heartbreak against Hearts handed them a setback in the opening gameweek, but the galvanised Hoops must aim for momentum now with a win over Dundee.
Ten-man Dundee came back twice from behind to settle for a 2-2 draw against St. Mirren. It’s an encouraging result following the top-flight return and the unsettled Bhoys might face another stern test en route to securing their first league win of the 2021-22 campaign.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Dundee
Defence
Celtic have roped in Joe Hart to resolve their goalkeeper conundrum. The veteran Three Lions star should have done better on his debut against Jablonec, but his profound experience could eventually strengthen the Hoops between the sticks. He had a tough time in England since leaving City and the Glasgow move might help him resurrect his career with regular minutes.
Anthony Ralston has done well as a right fullback. Celtic are yet to rope in a new name since parting ways with Jonjoe Kenny and the young Scot has so far made the opportunities count. Nir Bitton was erroneous once again in the heart of the backline and the gaffer must restore Stephen Welsh alongside Carl Starfelt as the primary central defensive pairing. Greg Taylor remains the only choice for the left-back role and is expected to retain his place for the weekend encounter.
Midfield
Ismaila Soro is trying his level best to impress as a deep-lying playmaker. Also, the versatility of Callum McGregor helps the Bhoys in tweaking the midfield set-up. The Scotsman, known for his ball-carrying ability, down the middle runs and smart link-up play, is forming a double pivot based on the formation. But his mobility allows Celtic to dominate the midfield game with more possession and a creative spark.
Liel Abada has been a revelation down the right-hand flank. He has scored twice already in Europe and is determined to replicate a similar show in the Premiership by shaking off the shambles on display against the Jambos. David Turnbull needs to do better as a ‘number 10’, particularly in terms of work rate, final balls and finishing. Ryan Christie should start down the left and be replaced with fellow countryman James Forrest late on in the match.
Attack
Odsonne Edouard is struggling to meet his own standards while spearheading the Celtic attack. The midweek goal from Kyogo Furuhashi must have relieved the boss. Big Ange should still hand ‘French Eddie’ a start amid transfer speculations. The reason being that it would be better to ease in Furuhashi rather than throwing him in the deep end of Scottish football from the very start.
