A top-of-the-table clash on Sunday afternoon finished in favour of league leaders Hearts, who claimed a commanding 3-1 win to stretch their lead to eight points over Celtic. Persistent injury problems, along with a disastrous transfer window, have not helped Brendan Rodgers either. The gaffer would demand a reaction from his men, as they are set to host Falkirk on Wednesday night.
The Bairns have made a strong start since being promoted to the Premiership with three wins, draws and defeats each after 9 outings. But they have already been beaten once by the Hoops earlier this season, when the champions clinched a comprehensive 4-1 win at Parkhead in the Scottish League Cup.
Nevertheless, their current form must encourage John McGlynn, who guided them to script back-to-back victories against Dundee and Motherwell. A 1-1 draw with Rangers before the international break resulted in Russell Martin’s dismissal, and an upset at Celtic Park could now jeopardise Rodgers’ future.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Falkirk
Defence
Kasper Schmeichel is having a tough time between the sticks after a series of clean sheets. The veteran Dane would hope for a less eventful night. However, injuries to first-team defenders might force him into action in the last line of defence.
Rushing Alistair Johnston backfired on Thursday night, as the Canadian right fullback is now ruled out with fresh fitness concerns. Rodgers has preferred Colby Donovan ahead of Anthony Ralston, and the teenage ace is expected to get the nod once again this midweek. Cameron Carter-Vickers would miss the majority of the campaign after sustaining an Achilles tendon injury, and despite having Auston Trusty back, the manager should prefer emerging youngster Dane Murray alongside Liam Scales, rather than losing balance by opting for two left-footed centre-backs. Kieran Tierney is regaining his rhythm down the left, and the Scotsman must retain his starting status over Marcelo Saracchi.
Midfield
The Northern Irishman has been forced to make adjustments in midfield due to several key absentees up top. Arne Engels would operate box-to-box, with Benjamin Nygren likely to operate as a winger. Reo Hatate must step up his game, and the goal against Hearts should boost Callum McGregor’s confidence. Paulo Bernardo and Luke McCowan might be introduced from the bench, having failed to impress in limited opportunities.
Attack
Daizen Maeda is back in team training, but he should not be risked from the start against Falkirk. Johnny Kenny had little impact against Hearts, yet he should feature up top amid Kelechi Iheanacho’s injury absence. Sebastian Tounekti has kept the opponents on their toes with his dribbles and directness, but the Tunisian must work on his finishing and decision-making to cement his spot on the left. James Forrest, Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Shin Yamada and Yang Hyun-jun are among the alternate attacking options. However, none of them has made any noteworthy contribution.
