Celtic and Rangers seem to be relentless in the title race at the moment as both teams are separated by goal difference in the league table. The Hoops got the job done against Ross County with relative ease in the weekend’s game as they secured a 4-1 win. Next, they will host Hamilton Academical in a midweek tie.
The Accies are winless in their last five games in the league, drawing three games in the process. Celtic had to grind out a narrow win in September against the same opponents as they won 1-0. However, Celtic’s form looks ominous at the moment, and the reigning champions will also be at their home, so Hamilton will have their work cut out for them.
Team news: Hatem Abd Elhamed, Jonny Hayes, Jozo Simunovic and Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo are currently the defensive injuries for Lennon, and they are expected to miss out again. Scott Bain is back in training, but he is also unlikely to be match fit. Mohamed Elyounoussi and Olivier Ntcham are significant doubts for the Bhoys. Odsonne Edouard is facing a race against time to be fit for the final against Rangers. Hence, he will be unavailable for this tie. Striker Vakoun Issouf Bayo is also out with an injury.
Celtic Predicted Lineup Vs Hamilton Academical
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Fraser Forster will once again start in goal. He will be shielded by the centre back partnership of Christopher Jullien and Kristoffer Ajer. Summer signing Greg Taylor is likely to play at left-back. Lennon will be hoping that Hayes recovers by the weekend as Taylor will be cup-tied for the League Cup final. Moritz Bauer could get a start over Jeremie Frimpong at right back.
Midfield
Scott Brown should captain the side once again, and he will play in his typical defensive midfield role. Callum McGregor is going to be his likely partner in the middle.
Ryan Christie could be given a breather, and Lennon might opt to play Michael Johnston from the start who has scored two goals in the last two games off the bench. Johnston could start from the left. Tom Rogic will likely occupy the attacking midfielder’s role. James Forrest is expected to begin on the right flank. However, we can see Johnston and Forrest interchange their flanks as Lennon has used them as inverted wingers in the last few games.
Attack
Lewis Morgan is likely to get another chance to start and lead the line. Leigh Griffiths might have to be content with a place on the bench.
