Predicted Celtic line-up to face Valencia in the Europa League
Celtic return to European action as they welcome Spanish side Valencia to Celtic Park on Thursday.
The Europa League clash promises to be mouthwatering but Brendan Rodgers will be hopeful of taking advantage at home in the first leg of the round of 32.
After thrashing St. Johnstone 5-0 in the Scottish Cup, Celtic will be high on confidence to beat Valencia on Thursday.
Team News
Oliver Burke hobbled off midway through the second half against St. Johnstone but is expected to be fit to face Valencia.
But Olivier Ntcham and Kieran Tierney remain doubtful after the pair missed Saturday’s win over St. Johnstone.
Probable Celtic XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Scott Bain (GK)
Bain kept another clean sheet in the previous game and should be in goal against Valencia.
Jeremy Toljan (RB)
Toljan has slotted into the Celtic XI seamlessly since arriving on loan from Dortmund last month. He will start at right-back on Thursday.
Dedryck Boyata (CB)
Boyata is Celtic’s best defender and will retain his place in the team.
Kristoffer Ajer (CB)
Ajer did well after replacing Simunovic at half-time against St. Johnstone. He could partner Boyata in central defence.
Jonny Hayes (LB)
With Izaguirre injured and Tierney doubtful, Hayes should be given another chance at left-back.
Scott Brown (CM)
Rodgers will expect Brown to deliver the goods on a big night. The veteran Scotsman will look to be his usual self and guide the Hoops to a victory over Valencia.
Callum McGregor (CM)
Partnering Brown in the middle of the park should be McGregor, who can pick a pass and come up with goals as well.
Scott Sinclair (LW)
A hat-trick in the last game would have given Sinclair a lot of confidence. He’ll look to give a tough time to the Valencia defenders.
Ryan Christie (CAM)
Christie has been in sublime form, which makes him one of the first names on Rodgers’ team sheet.
James Forrest (RW)
Forrest will start in his usual position on the right wing and contribute as much as he can to the attack.
Read more: Why Celtic should complete a permanent deal for 21-year-old Scot in the summer
Oliver Burke (ST)
Burke has made a mighty impact since joining the Bhoys from West Brom on loan in January. His pace, power, physicality and ability to finish off chances have quickly made him a favourite at Celtic Park.
