Predicted Celtic Lineup To Face Aberdeen In Scottish Premiership
Celtic were knocked out of the Europa League with little more than a whimper last night, against a Zenit St. Petersburg side that had hardly played a game this year. It was a hugely disappointing display for the Scottish side who had hoped to progress to the next round after an impressive display at Celtic Park which saw them take a 1-0 lead to Russia.
This weekend, they go away to Aberdeen for a clash that they will need to win to guarantee that the Scottish title stays in Glasgow. But it will be a hard task to pick the team up after such a disappointing performance.
Team News
Johnny Hayes, Craig Gordon and Leigh Griffiths are all still out for the Hoops. Patrick Roberts will not be risked this weekend and most of the defence could face the axe sooner than later after the dreadful performance against Zenit.
Probable Celtic XI
Formation: 3-5-2
GK – Dorus de Vries
That name on the team sheet will bring groans from most of the Celtic faithful but despite the ‘knuckleball’ incident against Zenit, it is unlikely that Rodgers will drop him for this game.
CB – Mikael Lustig
The Swede got caught several times against Zenit and looked a little off the pace. But he will be given an opportunity to put it right against Aberdeen.
CB – Jack Hendry
Simunovic had a terrible game against Zenit and he is the most likely to lose his place in the defence. Jack Hendry is a proven defender in the division.
CB – Kristoffer Ajer
The Norwegian international was not at his best on Thursday night but he did his best to try and stop the wave of Zenit attacks.
LM – Kieran Tierney
Tierney was the only player who managed to come away from the Zenit game with any real credit, as he worked tirelessly. However, he should have done better defensively.
CM – Olivier Ntcham
The only player to get a shot on target against Zenit, he will be expected to push much further forward against Aberdeen.
CM – Scott Brown
The tough-tackling midfielder is much better suited to the SPL. He will sit in front of the defence to try and dictate the play.
CM – Tomas Rogic
Rogic came off the bench at half-time to try and repair the damage against Zenit and he will be vital for the remainder of Celtic’s season.
RM – Charly Musonda
The Chelsea loanee has been impressive so far for Celtic and will want to prove his worth to Rodgers.
ST – Scott Sinclair
The Englishman could only watch as the ball hit the back of the Bhoys net for a third time as he was preparing to come on against Zenit. Will be given a chance to make more of an impact here.
ST – Moussa Dembele
He seemed visibly frustrated at the lack of service he received in the Europa League but he will get far more opportunities against Aberdeen. He will need to take at least one of them.