Celtic are off to a flying start with four successive wins across competitions. They are yet to concede a goal in the Premiership, and the gaffer Brendan Rodgers would demand another emphatic victory from his juggernaut despite hosting Old Firm rivals Rangers on Sunday afternoon.
The Gers, on the other hand, are undergoing a transition under Philippe Clement. A squad overhaul is in progress, but the Belgian boss has yet to implement an identity and brand of football to close the gap at the top of the league standings. They must uplift their performance to script an upset at Parkhead having been humiliated by the Hoops in recent meetings.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Rangers
Defence
Kasper Schmeichel has been a like-for-like replacement for Joe Hart following the latter’s retirement from the game. The veteran Danish custodian has a hat-trick of clean sheets in the league and it remains to be seen whether he overcomes the Gers’ threat between the sticks.
Celtic have a stable backline with ample depth and quality in all positions. But the absence of Cameron Carter-Vickers from the training sessions has cast doubts over his availability on the derby day. Stephen Welsh could partner with Liam Scales in deep defence unless the USMNT centre-half passes a late fitness test. Alex Valle has been roped in from Barcelona on loan to challenge and cover Greg Taylor down the left. The Scotsman should keep his place, and so is Alistair Johnston, particularly after last weekend’s stellar display against St Mirren. Anthony Ralston could be introduced as a second-half substitute replacing the Canadian in the right-back role.
Midfield
Matt O’Riley’s move to Brighton & Hove Albion has left a significant void in the centre of the pitch. They are closing on Augsburg’s Arne Engels to restore parity in midfield, but the manager should rely on Paulo Bernardo alongside Reo Hatate for the ‘number 8’ spots. Skipper Callum McGregor must drive the show from the deep following a blistering start with 2 stunning goals in 3 Premiership outings.
Attack
The Bhoys must be sweating over Kyogo Furuhashi’s future amid interest from Manchester City. Rodgers might deploy Adam Idah high up the pitch if Kyogo’s transfer occurs before the deadline. Nicolas Kuhn must operate from the right ahead of James Forrest. Also, versatile Daizen Maeda could feature from the left given his flashy skills and work rate. Luis Palma and Yang Hyun-Jun should be among the substitutes with Mikey Johnston set to leave for the English Championship.
