High-flying Celtic are back at the top of the Premiership standings following a majestic midweek victory against Rangers in the Old Firm derby. The upbeat Hoops must maintain this amazing streak and secure all three points on Sunday afternoon when they lock horns with Motherwell at Fir Park.
Celtic have already beaten the Well twice earlier this term, including a 2-0 win on the road back in October. However, the North Lanarkshire side are having a decent run under Graham Alexander, and a headstrong weekend display might frustrate the Bhoys who are outright favourites for the weekend.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Motherwell
Defence
After a few difficult years in England, Joe Hart has regained his lost form. He has been sensational between the sticks and should aim for a third successive clean sheet.
The return of Christopher Jullien has been a significant boost in the heart of the defensive line. But the Frenchman is unlikely to feature in the starting XI given the stability earned by Carl Starfelt and Cameron Carter-Vickers. Josip Juranovic is the preferred right fullback over Anthony Ralston, whereas Greg Taylor must retain his place down the left after a boisterous performance against Rangers.
Midfield
Despite a double cheekbone fracture versus Alloa Athletic, skipper Callum McGregor made a timely return for the Gers game and dominated the midfield show with his sheer composure and expertise. The Scotsman is expected to operate from the base.
Also, the incredible Reo Hatate has cemented his place in the starting XI following a brace in the Old Firm. Meanwhile, Tom Rogic is back in the camp from Australia duty, and the gaffer Ange Postecoglou might restore him to the first-team squad replacing Matt O’Riley.
Nir Bitton, Ismaila Soro and James McCarthy remain the other options who could slot in the centre of the pitch if the situation demands. However, Yōsuke Ideguchi and David Turnbull are not in contention due to their respective fitness concerns.
Attack
Liel Abada was forced to leave the pitch on Wednesday night with a tight hamstring. The manager must not risk him for the Motherwell tie as he has James Forrest capable of featuring down the right-hand flank.
Filipe Jota has been exquisite from the left, and the ‘number 9’ role should be occupied by Daizen Maeda amid Kyogo Furuhashi’s injury absence. Giorgos Giakoumakis lacked the impact against Rangers, and therefore, should be dropped to make way for the Japan international.
