Probable Celtic Lineup For Champions League Qualifiers
Celtic had an excellent season last time around, particularly in the domestic arena, but it started on a real negative after a couple of very unnerving performances and results in the Champions League qualifiers.
They cannot afford the same shaky start this time when they play either Linfield or La Florita in July, though they have a busy schedule of pre-season friendlies to play, which will help them get things right. At this point, its nigh impossible to say how their ideal XI will look, but allowing no more significant transfer movement between now and then, they may go with something like this.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK – Craig Gordon
What a good season the former Hearts man had last time, capped by playing for Scotland in the memorable 2-2 with England at Hamden. Another good show is expected.
RB – Mikael Lustig
The Swede doesn’t seem to be guaranteed of his place, with Gamboa pushing. But he will probably remain the first choice for now.
CB – Erik Sviatchenko
The Danish representative has a bright future and could form a promising alliance at the back as long as his playing partner is retained.
CB – Jozo Simunovic
The Croat is a target for English Premier League clubs and it may well be that he waits to see whether Celtic get through to the group stages of this competition. If he stays, he’ll be a star man.
LB – Kieran Tierney
The star youngster may yet leave the club, but with no firm offers on the table yet he can start in this competition and show his worth at left-back.
CM – Scott Brown
The skipper is still going strong and is likely to lead his team out for another European campaign.
CM – Callum McGregor
There was noticeable improvement in McGregor in the second half of last season and the club will hope he can carry on from where he left off.
RW – Jonny Hayes
The recent capture from runners-up Aberdeen will be given the chance to impress, now that Patrick Roberts is not at the club.
CAM – Stuart Armstrong
Another player who may look to leave, but for now, Armstrong remains one of the better players in the squad.
LW – Scott Sinclair
An extreme dangerman in the Celtic squad, Sinclair loves to cut in from the left and bagged a huge amount of goals in the club’s unbeaten domestic season last year.
ST – Moussa Dembele
It’ll be harsh on Leigh Griffiths but when fit, Dembele simply has to play. No doubts about this.
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