Predicted Celtic line-up to face RB Leipzig in the Europa League
Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic make the trip to Germany for the Europa League clash with RB Leipzig on Thursday.
The Hoops have endured an inconsistent Europa League campaign so far, playing two, winning one and losing one. They have three points after their opening two fixtures, beating Rosenborg 1-0 and losing 3-1 to Salzburg in Austria.
Celtic were swept away 3-1 in the last European game by RB Salzburg and Rodgers would expect a better showing against an exciting Leipzig side who are unbeaten in the domestic circuit this season.
Team News
Skipper Scott Brown could miss the game as he hobbled off after 21 minutes against Hibernian on Saturday.
Leigh Griffiths is a doubt for the Europa League clash after a knock ruled him out of the weekend’s game, while James Forrest is suspended after his straight red card against RB Salzburg.
Probable Celtic XI
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Craig Gordon (GK)
Gordon has been a reliable presence in goal for Celtic and could be in for a stellar test against Leipzig.
Mikael Lustig (RB)
Lustig has put in subpar displays, but Rodgers has stuck with him and the Swede should start at right-back.
Dedryck Boyata (CB)
A pillar at the back, Boyata is a very good organiser and a tough tackler. He is a certain starter for the game.
Filip Benkovic (CB)
The towering Benkovic could partner Boyata at the heart of the Celtic defence. He needs to be at the top of his game to keep the likes of Timo Werner and co. at bay.
Kieran Tierney (LB)
A consistent performer for Celtic, Tierney offers a lot to the attack with his mazy runs and crosses into the box.
Youssouf Mulumbu (CDM)
With Brown a big doubt, Rodgers could use Mulumbu in the holding midfield role. He is a tenacious midfielder who would look to keep Celtic ticking against Leipzig.
Olivier Ntcham (RCM)
A combative midfielder, Ntcham is an important member of the team and will be looking to help Celtic get three points on Thursday.
Callum McGregor (LCM)
McGregor is a vital cog in the team and his performance will be a major factor on Thursday.
Scott Sinclair (LW)
Sinclair might get a chance on the left wing and he could trouble the Leipzig defenders with his pace and bag full of tricks.
Tom Rogic (RW)
Starting on the right could be Rogic, who scored a goal in the 4-2 win over Hibs. The Australian would be raring to get on the scoresheet against Leipzig.
Read more: Here are 3 top-class replacements for Scott Brown who Celtic can target including Southampton star
Odsonne Edouard (ST)
Leading Celtic’s attack on Thursday could be Edouard, who is in a good goalscoring form of late.
