Wilfried Nancy must be in a dilemma over his style of play following three successive defeats across three different competitions since being appointed as the new Celtic boss. The most recent one was the League Cup final, where St Mirren outplayed the Hoops en route to scripting a 3-1 triumph. The Frenchman does not have enough ammunition to execute a 3-4-2-1 formation, and it remains to be seen whether he changes his gameplan on Wednesday night against Dundee United at Tannadice.
The Tangerines have not won in their last seven fixtures (4D 3L), but Jim Goodwin should fancy a chance against the champions, given the ongoing conundrum at Parkhead. Celtic claimed an emphatic 5-0 win when they visited Dundee United towards the closure of the previous campaign; however, a similar outcome seems unlikely, unless the gaffer turns things around, overcoming the weekend disappointment.
Predicted 3-4-2-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Dundee United
Defence
Kasper Schmeichel is having a tough time between the sticks, as the veteran Dane has conceded 8 goals over the past three outings. Celtic must keep up the pace with league leaders Hearts, and the custodian’s leadership from the last line of defence would be crucial for the Glasgow giants.
Cameron Carter-Vickers’ injury has decimated the Bhoys’ defence in depth. Although the young duo of Jahmai Simpson-Pusey and Dane Murray are there among the central defensive options, Nancy should stick with Auston Trusty, Liam Scales and Kieran Tierney, who offer experience in the heart of the backline.
Midfield
Similarly, Alistair Johnston and Marcelo Saracchi’s injury absences limit them in the wingback roles. Anthony Ralston does not bring enough threat with overlapping runs, crosses, and cut-ins from the right-hand flank, whereas Sebastian Tounekti, an outright winger, lacks the balance down the left. Colby Donovan would be a better fit in place of Ralston, but the attacking threat of Tounekti could see him retain his position. Arne Engels and Callum McGregor are viewed as the preferred central midfielders, who are expected to make down-the-middle runs and contribute to transitions. Paulo Bernardo, struggling for minutes, should be brought in as a second-half substitute.
Luke McCowan, Michael-Ange Balikwisha and James Forrest would find it difficult to fit in Nancy’s system. Benjamin Nygren might return to the starting XI and form a pair alongside Reo Hatate as midfield attackers.
Attack
Kelechi Iheanacho has suffered another injury, which would rule him out for a while. Johnny Kenny replaced him against the Buddies, but the Celtic boss should opt for Daizen Maeda up top for his mobility and poaching skills.
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