Celtic are back on track in the Premiership race following the return of Martin O’Neill to the dugout for the remainder of the season. However, their future in Europe is hanging by a thread, as they must secure a result against Bologna at Renato Dall’Ara on Thursday night to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the Europa League knockouts.
Bologna, on the other hand, have an outside chance to secure a ‘top eight’ finish. The remaining two group phase encounters are must-wins for the Serie A side to receive a bye to the round of 16, and the Hoops, therefore, must step up their game to script an upset on the road.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Bologna
Defence
Despite being at the twilight of his career, veteran Kasper Schmeichel remains the preferred option between the sticks ahead of Viljami Sinisalo. The Danish ace must be prepared for a busy night in Italy against the likes of Riccardo Orsolini and Santiago Castro.
Julian Araujo’s ineligibility and Alistair Johnston’s injury should see Colby Donovan feature down the right over Anthony Ralston for his flair and aggression. Auston Trusty and Liam Scales are expected to pair up in the heart of the backline, and the fitness woes of Marcelo Saracchi leave the Celts with Kieran Tierney as the only designated left fullback. Stephen Welsh, recalled from his Motherwell loan, is not eligible in Europe, and the season-ending injury of Cameron Carter-Vickers would see Dane Murray grab a place among the subs, being the only alternative for the centre-back role.
Midfield
Skipper Callum McGregor must drive the game from the deep as a ‘number six’. The skipper should partner with Arne Engels, who has emerged as a transfer target for RB Leipzig. Paulo Bernardo, an understudy to the first-team duo, might get introduced as a second-half substitute.
Yang Hyun-jun is in blistering form down the right, and a spectacular goal against Auchinleck Talbot in the FA Cup should boost Sebastian Tounekti’s confidence, given his struggle with finishing. Benjamin Nygren must get the nod as a ‘number 10’ for his creativity and scoring attributes. Reo Hatate and Luke McCowan might be brought in at some stage to inject fresh legs in the middle of the park.
Attack
Daizen Maeda is irreplaceable up top, with Kelechi Iheanacho still recovering from a hamstring injury. Johnny Kenny would also be there to challenge and cover the Celtic hitman high up the pitch.
