Celtic are on the verge of reclaiming the Scottish crown as they scripted a comeback win against Rangers on Sunday afternoon. However, there is no place for complacency in the Premiership race and the Hoops must maintain their winning streak versus St. Johnstone whom they are set to host this weekend.
The Saints, battling for survival, secured successive wins against Motherwell and Livingston ahead of travelling to Glasgow. But they were defeated on both occasions when these two sides clashed heads earlier this season. Callum Davidson’s men have a mountain to climb on Saturday afternoon in order to script an upset as they did last season by completing a Cup double.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face St. Johnstone
Defence
Joe Hart has restored stability in Celtic goal and the gaffer is now relying on the ex-Manchester City custodian across competitions. He conceded early against the Gers but should aim for a cleansheet in the upcoming fixture.
The backline showed their resilience and composure during the Old Firm clash. Greg Taylor was taken off in the second half due to a cramp, but the left fullback is expected to recover in time to retain his starting status. Cameron Carter-Vickers has been exquisite in the heart of the backline, and the Spurs loanee should continue alongside Carl Starfelt in the heart of the backline. Josip Juranovic is now preferred over Anthony Ralston down the right and the Croatia international is likely to retain his place in this Parkhead tie.
Midfield
Matt O’Riley was forced to leave the pitch last week as a second-half substitute within minutes of his introduction. But the injury is not serious, as confirmed by the manager in his post-derby interview. Having said that, he must not risk the Denmark youth international from the start, given the plethora of midfield options in his arsenal. Tom Rogic and Reo Hatate should operate in a box-to-box role, whereas skipper Callum McGregor is set to pull the strings with his vision and technicality as a deep-lying playmaker. The likes of Nir Bitton and David Turnbull are also there who made an impact as ‘super subs’ against their bitter rivals.
Attack
Giorgos Giakoumakis has grabbed his chances expertly in the wake of Kyogo Furuhashi’s hamstring injury. The Greek ‘number 9’ is set to lead the line; also the work ethic and relentless runs of Daizen Maeda add flexibility in the attacking third. Liel Abada might get the nod on the right.
