Celtic will host St. Johnstone at Celtic Park in a midweek tie to consolidate their position on the top of the table. Rangers’ earlier loss to Kilmarnock has given the Hoops breathing space on the top of the table, but Rodgers needs to make sure that his side aren’t complacent.
The two teams met earlier, and Celtic ripped apart St. Johnstone by six goals to nil. Therefore one shouldn’t expect any miracles from the away side, and the Hoops should be able to see them off given the quality they have. Tommy Wright’s St. Johnstone currently occupy the sixth spot on the table, and they are coming on the back of a loss against Hearts.
Team News
Eboue Kouassi and Daniel Arzani are long term absentees. Tom Rogic is unavailable. Kieran Tierney is out with a hip problem. Filip Benkovic is also out from this encounter.
Celtic predicted lineup Vs St. Johnstone
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Scott Bain has had three starts in January and has managed three clean sheets. Therefore we believe he should continue in goal for the Hoops.
Swedish international Mikael Lustig continues to be the first choice right back even though there is uncertainty about his future. With just a couple of days left in the transfer window, it seems likely that Lustig would continue as the preferred right back option. Kristoffer Ajer is expected to start in the heart of the defence. The Norwegian has looked impressive and should be trusted by Rodgers to start. Jozo Simunovic is likely to get a start as Filip Benkovic is out of this tie. Emilio Izaguirre is expected to begin in the left-back role given that Kieran Tierney is sidelined due to an injury.
Midfield
Scott Brown has continued to start after the winter break, and we expect him to keep his place in midfield. Callum McGregor is a nailed on starter in the middle of the park. His work rate and ability to pick out a pass are second to none, and he should partner his captain in midfield.
Ryan Christie has earned his place in the starting eleven on the back of some terrific performances. He is set to start in the attacking midfield role. On the left, Scott Sinclair is set to start once again. The Englishman has seven goals in the last five games, but many still feel that he can do much better with his overall contribution to the side. The energetic and pacy James Forrest is a guaranteed starter from the right flank.
Attack
Summer signing Oliver Burke has already managed two goals to his name since he came in. He is expected to start up front.
