Celtic were rocking and bouncing at Parkhead in the midweek clash against Cluj as they secured a 2-0 win. Now Lennon’s men must focus on the Premiership as they will travel to the Almondvale Stadium to take on Livingston this weekend.
The Hoops dropped their first points of the season as they drew against Hibernian last week. With Rangers producing a convincing performance against Aberdeen, Celtic’s lead has been cut down to just one point. Lennon would want to make sure that his team goes into the international break with their lead on the top of the table intact. Livingston are currently sixth on the table, but they are on a poor run of form as they have lost three games on the bounce.
Team News: Jozo Simunovic is a long term absentee, and he might not feature this year. Scott Bain is also out with a hand injury. Leigh Griffiths is closing in on a return, but he could be doubtful once again. Nir Bitton featured on the bench against CFR Cluj, so he has recovered from his injury problem.
Celtic predicted lineup vs Livingston
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Fraser Forster will continue to start in goal ahead of Craig Gordon. Christopher Jullien has managed to settle in well, and he should continue in the centre back role. Nir Bitton could be given the nod to start in defence ahead of Kristoffer Ajer. Moritz Bauer might feature on the right side of the defence after Elhamed put in a good shift against Cluj. Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo will probably keep his place on the left given his attacking prowess.
Midfield
Lennon is likely to rely on his tried and tested pair of Scott Brown and Callum McGregor to start in midfield. The former will be in a more conservative role shielding the back four, whereas McGregor will look to split open the opposition defence with his range of passing.
Olivier Ntcham might get the nod to start as the attacking midfielder in this tie. The Frenchman would have been disappointed on not being able to get any minutes in the Europa League tie against Cluj. Ryan Christie could be shifted on the left flank. Elyounoussi might be given a rest after his impressive performance in midweek. James Forrest should be in his usual right-wing position.
Attack
Odsonne Edouard is expected to lead the line over the likes of Issouf Bayo and Leigh Griffiths. The latter might miss out altogether because of an injury issue.
