Predicted Celtic line-up to face Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership
Celtic host surprise league leaders Kilmarnock at the Parkhead on Saturday as Brendan Rodgers hopes to bounce to winning ways.
The Hoops drew 1-1 at Motherwell on Wednesday, dropping two valuable points that saw Kilmarnock seize the opportunity and go top of the table with a victory over Livingston.
Rodgers’ Celtic will have to be at the top of their game to defeat Kilmarnock at the weekend and reclaim the top spot in the table.
Team News
Eboue Kouassi and Daniel Arzani have been ruled out for the season. Dedryck Boyata missed the 1-1 draw with Motherwell due to a hamstring problem and might have to sit out again for the weekend game.
Probable Celtic XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Craig Gordon (GK)
Gordon is Celtic’s undisputed first-choice in goal and should start against Kilmarnock.
Mikael Lustig (RB)
Lustig was not involved in the Motherwell game but could come back into the team for Saturday’s fixture.
Jozo Simunovic (CB)
Simunovic has not had a run of games under his belt due to injuries this season. Now fit, he should start in central defence.
Filip Benkovic (CB)
Benkovic has nailed down a place in the team. He is a certain starter against Kilmarnock.
Kieran Tierney (LB)
Tierney is a consistent player who can defend well and equally contribute to the attacks when required.
Scott Brown (CM)
Brown can dictate the tempo of the game from a deeper role. His presence on the pitch makes Celtic a very different team.
Callum McGregor (CM)
Could drop down to central midfield alongside Brown. His quality on the ball and ability to pick out passes are second to none.
Jonny Hayes (RW)
Hayes impressed with his running and energy against Motherwell. He should get the nod again for the weekend fixture.
Tom Rogic (CAM)
Renowned for his creativity and flair, Rogic could take his usual no.10 role in the team on Saturday.
Ryan Christie (LW)
Christie is Celtic’s man in form at the moment. He simply is one of the first names on Rodgers’ team-sheet.
Read more: Celtic must keep hold of loan star on a permanent basis as it could solidify their backline in the long run
Odsonne Edouard (ST)
Leading the Celtic attack could be Edouard, who should get the nod ahead of Griffiths following the Scotsman’s poor display in midweek.
