Predicted Celtic Lineup To Face Rangers In Scottish Cup
Celtic will look to get one step closer to clinching a domestic treble when they take on Old Firm rivals Rangers in the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup at the Hampden Park.
Brendan Rodgers’ side have already got their hands on two pieces of silverware, having won the Scottish League Cup earlier in the season, before winning the Scottish Premiership title earlier this month – their sixth consecutive league triumph. Celtic are unbeaten in the domestic scenes this season and they will be keen on finishing the season without having to taste a defeat, and that too against their bitter-most rivals.
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Captain Scott Brown received a red card in the league game over the weekend and should have been suspended for two games. But with Celtic deciding to appeal the decision and the Sports court being closed due to Easter, the midfielder should be available for selection on Sunday. Defenders Mikael Lustig and Dedryck Boyata weren’t involved for the Dingwall clash, but could return for the derby.
Here is how Celtic will line up for the Old Firm clash:
Probable Celtic Line-Up:
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Craig Gordon (GK)
The 34-year old has been brilliant in goal this season and has kept a whopping 25 clean sheets from 48 games across all competitions. Undisputed starter.
Mikael Lustig (RB)
After having been rested for the weekend clash against Ross County, the Swede could be in for a return to the starting XI, with Rodgers expected to switch back to a 4-2-3-1.
Dedryck Boyata (CB)
Another regular starter, who was rested for the Saturday’s encounter, Boyata should return to the backline in the place of Erik Sviatchenko.
Jozo Simunovic (CB)
The Croatian has struck up a solid partnership with Boyata since the turn of the year. He should continue alongside the former Manchester City man in the playing XI.
Kieran Tierney (LB)
One of the best Celtic players this season, the 19-year old will return to his natural left-back position after playing as a part of a back-three over the weekend.
Scott Brown (CM)
Has sparked controversy with the decision to appeal his red card against Ross County. The appeal should allow him to play on Sunday, with the court remaining closed.
Callum McGregor (CM)
Has been growing in stature in recent weeks and seems to be getting used to being a first-team regular. Should make his 40th appearance of the season on Sunday.
James Forrest (RW)
On the right-flank, it will be a tough call for Rodgers, to choose between James Forrest and Patrick Roberts. But considering the magnitude of the clash, expect him to go with the senior of the two.
Stuart Armstrong (CAM)
The midfielder has transformed into a star under the former Liverpool boss this season. He is a sure starter in the No.10 role from where he can make things happen in the attacking third.
Scott Sinclair (LW)
The Englishman has scored 23 goals already and set up 10 more in his debut season with Celtic. He should feature on the left-wing against Rangers.
Moussa Dembele (ST)
32 goals in 48 appearances sum up the impact that Dembele has made in his first season with the Bhoys. Having recently returned from injury, he will be keen to fire his team closer to another trophy.
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