A 2-0 home win against AZ Alkmaar has put Celtic in the driver’s seat ahead of next midweek’s return league contest at AFAS Stadion. They are favourites to qualify for the group stages of the Europa League but, at the same time, must maintain the winning streak in the Premiership versus St. Mirren on Saturday afternoon.
The Saints are yet to win a league game after settling for a 2-2 draw against Dundee followed by a 2-1 defeat versus Hearts earlier this month. They got knocked out from the League Cup by Livingston on penalties, and a trip to Parkhead would be the sternest test for Jim Goodwin’s men this season yet considering the Hoops’ electrifying display across competitions.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup Vs St. Mirren
Defence
Joe Hart has not only redeemed his reputation but also resolved the Bhoys’ long-standing goalkeeper conundrum. He was majestic time and again on Wednesday night and clinched a crucial clean-sheet against the Eredivisie side.
Anthony Ralston has grabbed his opportunities in the absence of a senior right fullback and although the club are closing in on Legia Warsaw’s Josip Juranovic, the young Scot should not be dropped immediately due to his impressive all-round display down the wide areas.
Carl Starfelt is improving with time (although still committing mistakes at the back) and is expected to retain his place alongside Stephen Welsh in the heart of the backline. Greg Taylor is set to continue as the left-back until a new name is roped in to challenge and cover the Scotsman.
Midfield
Skipper Callum McGregor is dominating the midfield game with his work ethic, vision and set-piece traits. Tom Rogic, too, is in exquisite form as the resurgence of the Aussie ace is a massive boost for the Glasgow giants. His down the middle runs, creative spark and composure would make things more difficult for the struggling visitors. David Turnbull is no more restricted to a ‘number 10’ role and is covering a lot of ground to ensure free-flowing football from the centre of the park.
Attack
Liel Abada returned from his injury for the AZ clash and is likely to operate once again from the right-hand flank. Ryan Christie remains a doubt for fitness reasons and the veteran James Forrest should keep hold of his place down the left. Celtic have hit the jackpot by roping in Kyogo Furuhashi and the Japanese sensation must lead the line over Odsonne Edouard to continue his scoring streak.
