Celtic haven’t had the start they would have wanted to their new season. Their latest outing against Lithuanian side Suduva in the Europa League qualifiers ended in a 1-1 draw thus compounding their worries in the coming weeks. Brendan Rodgers’ side have turned their attention back to the Scottish Premiership though as they are due to host Hamilton Academical at the Celtic Park in a couple of hours.
The Hoops have collected three points from their first two games in the Scottish top-flight, after their victory over Livingston and loss against Heart of Midlothian. With the league getting more competitive every week, it is about time Celtic finally put their feet on the accelerator.
Celtic Team News
The availability of Dedryck Boyata remains unclear owing to doubts over his future at the club. While Jack Hendry is out of contention to feature due to an ankle injury, Jozo Simunovic is set to face a scan on his ankle as well.
Lewis Morgan and Nir Bitton are out due to knee injuries, whereas Odsonne Edouard is expected to return to training next week. Besides, Marvin Compper is short on fitness and is unlikely to feature today.
PREDICTED CELTIC LINE-UP TO FACE HAMILTON ACADEMICAL (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Cristian Gamboa is likely to operate as the right-back against Martin Canning’s side. Mikael Lustig and Kristoffer Ajer are expected to get the green light from Rodgers to start in the central defence. Rodgers will expect a better performance from the duo heading into the long season.
Kieran Tierney brings a lot of energy and quality on the left flank and he will look to continue his good form. Craig Gordon made a serious error of judgment which cost the Bhoys the goal against Suduva in the Europa League clash but he is expected to replace Scott Bain between the sticks in this league fixture.
Midfield
Rodgers is expected to roll out the central midfield duo of Scott Brown and Olivier Ntcham. Brown and Ntcham have struck up a good partnership and will provide the foundation for the attackers to thrive upon. Tom Rogic is likely to take up the role of the central attacking midfielder.
Attack
Moussa Dembele is expected to lead the line and he will be craving to find the back of the net after failing to score against Suduva. While Scott Sinclair should be the one operating as the left-winger, we expect the former Liverpool boss to station James Forrest on the right flank.
