Although its too late to salvage the season, Celtic have regained some momentum in recent weeks and showcased their sheer supremacy on Wednesday night against St. Mirren. A thumping 4-0 win reminded everyone of the quality this side possesses and the galvanised Hoops would look to extend the winning streak on valentine’s eve versus St. Johnstone at McDiarmid Park.
The Saints have been in fine form of late with wins over Kilmarnock and in-form Livingston. They suffered a narrow defeat against Rangers but have made it through to the Scottish League Cup final defeating heavyweights Hibernian at Hampden Park. Yet they would face a sterner test on Sunday lunchtime.
Predicted 4-1-2-1-2 Celtic Lineup To Face St. Johnstone
Defence
Despite not being entirely convincing between the sticks, Scott Bain remains a better option than Vasilis Barkas who is yet to settle down since securing a high-profile summer switch from AEK Athens.
However, the concern would be Stephen Welsh’s injury as the youngster was stretchered off the pitch versus St. Mirren following a wicked challenge from Jon Obika. Neil Lennon is hopeful of having him back for the weekend trip. Still, we might actually see Shane Duffy lining up with Kristoffer Ajer in the heart of the backline unless the Scotsman recovers overnight. Jonjoe Kenny has brought back stability as a right fullback, whereas the run of games is finally helping left-back Greg Taylor secure his future as Kieran Tierney’s successor.
Midfield
A midfield diamond has done wonder for Celtic, and the gaffer is unlikely to alter the winning set-up, particularly after months of inconsistency. The return of Scott Brown has brought back the aggression in the centre of the pitch. The veteran skipper would break down opponents’ moves from the deep-lying role, and the magnificent Tom Rogic is expected to feature as the ‘number 10’ having found the net spectacularly against the Buddies.
Callum McGregor operates as the chief ball carrier, while the movement and creative spark of David Turnbull should be explored to bolster scoring chances in the attacking third.
Attack
Odsonne Edouard is making the scoresheet week in, week out. The Frenchman would once again aim to find the net with his finesse and poaching traits, but the presence of Albian Ajeti has not been of much influence over the past couple of games. Yet Ajeti should be relied upon ahead of Leigh Griffith considering the potential he exhibited at Basel and St. Gallen before plying his trade abroad.
