The European nightmare continues for Celtic as they endured a 4-0 Europa League defeat against Bayer Leverkusen ahead of travelling to Pittodrie for the weekend’s Aberdeen game. The Bhoys lost to Livingston and only settled for a draw against Dundee United in their last couple of Premiership outings and a further setback on Sunday lunchtime would jeopardize Ange Postecoglou’s position irrespective of the ongoing transition at Parkhead.
The Dons, too, are struggling for results of late despite an impressive start under new boss Stephen Glass. They must be desperate to bounce back from three successive defeats, but the presence of former Celtic skipper Scott Brown in Aberdeen midfield would be the centre of attraction given his success and silverware over the years donning the Hoops colours.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Aberdeen
Defence
Despite conceding four goals against mighty Bayer Leverkusen, Joe Hart should keep hold of his place ahead of Scott Bain and Vasilis Barkas. The Englishman has restored stability between the sticks with his experience and expertise, but the frailty at the back remains a major concern considering Postecoglou’s attacking brand of football.
With Josip Juranovic and Greg Taylor ruled out through injury concerns, the gaffer might once again rely on academy graduates Anthony Ralston and Adam Montgomery for the fullback roles. Boli Bolingoli is an option following a rare appearance against Livingston, but the emergence of 19-year-old Montgomery must be rewarded with another start on Sunday afternoon. Cameron Carter-Vickers and Carl Starfelt are yet to impress at the heart of the defensive line. However, a few more games should see them exhibiting a better understanding and resilience as the prime central defensive pairing.
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Midfield
The return of skipper Callum McGregor is a ray of hope amid such difficult times. The Scotsman should operate at the base of a ‘midfield three’ and showcase his ability to drive the show as a deep-lying playmaker. His presence in the middle of the park would allow Tom Rogic and David Turnbull to be more aggressive and creative in terms of dominating possession and down the middle runs.
Attack
Kyogo Furuhashi is back in action and ready to lead the line once more ahead of Albian Ajeti. Giorgos Giakoumakis grabbed his long-awaited debut against Leverkusen but is expected to continue as the understudy to the Japanese ace before settling down in the new surroundings. Liel Abada and Felipe Jota have been exquisite down the wide and should keep hold of their place with Scottish duo James Forrest and Mikey Johnston struggling due to fitness reasons.
