Rodgers To Make 4 Changes – Predicted 4-1-4-1 Celtic Line-Up To Face Astana In The UCL

Share

Predicted Celtic Lineup To Face Astana In UEFA Champions League Playoffs

Celtic will look to confirm their participation in the group stages of the UEFA Champions League, when they take on Kazakhstan outfit Astana, in the second leg of the playoff stages, on Tuesday. 

The Hoops come into the game with a likely unassailable lead of 5-0, thanks to a wonderful performance last week at the Parkhead. Manager Brendan Rodgers will be hoping that his side show the same clinical edge at the Astana Arena and finish the job off.

Team News

Rodgers continues to be without the services of defenders Dedryck Boyata and Erik Sviatchenko, while star striker Moussa Dembele too, is yet to recover. Young midfielder Kouassi Eboue is another absentee as he recovers from an injury that he sustained in the League Cup. Summer signing Jonny Hayes is a doubt as well.

There were concerns over the availability of Nir Bitton, as he seemed to have picked up an injury in the Hoops’ 2-0 win over Kilmarnock FC over the weekend. But the manager has confirmed that he will be available for selection.

Here’s how Celtic could take the field against Astana:

Manager: Brendan Rodgers

Formation: 4-1-4-1

Craig Gordon (GK)

The veteran stopper has kept four consecutive clean sheets across all competitions, and another one is expected on Tuesday night.

Mikael Lustig (RB)

The Swede did not start on Saturday, with Rodgers giving the young Anthony Ralston a run out, who impressed heavily. But we could see the senior man return to the starting XI.

Jozo Simunovic (CB)

Another player who was rested for the win over the Killies, the Croatian centre-half is expected to return to the fold on Tuesday.

Jozo Simunovic

Kristoffer Ajer (CB)

The 19-year old has impressed each time he has been called upon and made a strong case for a starting berth. Should start ahead of Bitton.

Kieran Tierney (LB)

The 20-year old played as a centre-half over the weekend and looked the part. But, he will return to his natural left-back position against Astana.

Scott Brown (DM)

The captain will sit as the deepest of central midfielders and shield his backline. He will be a vital presence as always.

James Forrest (RW)

With Hayes a doubt for the game, Forrest is expected to move out to the right-hand side of the attack, after having played as a centre-forward on Saturday. 

James Forrest

Callum McGregor (CM)

Scored a goal against the Killies and has started off the season brilliantly. Should retain his place in the lineup based on current form.

Tom Rogic (CM)

Was instrumental in Celtic’s win over the weekend, creating both the goals. As a result, he deserves a starting spot ahead of Stuart Armstrong. 

Scott Sinclair (LW)

The Englishman, who had scored twice in the first leg against Astana, was rested for the weekend encounter. Should be reinstated on the left flank. 

Leigh Griffiths (ST)

The 26-year old was benched for the weekend fixture. Expect him to return to the starting setup for Tuesday’s clash.

Here’s how Celtic could take the field:

Raghavendra Goudar

Mechanical Engineer, avid reader and a football fanatic.

Recent Posts

Tips for Attending Your First Live Football Match

Experiencing a live football match in a stadium is genuinely remarkable. The atmosphere differs  significantly from watching on a screen. The energy and excitement are contagious, immersing  you in the game like never before.   If you're gearing up for your inaugural football match, knowing what to expect is essential. The  sheer intensity of being surrounded by hundreds or thousands of passionate fans can be  overwhelming. To ensure you make the most of this unique experience, here are some tips for  first-timers:  Secure Tickets Early  Getting tickets is crucial, especially for popular events like the World Cup or highly anticipated  matches. Buying online is often the most convenient method. As the season progresses, ticket  demand increases, leading to quick sell-outs. Prices can vary based on team popularity, stadium  quality, and other factors. You can think about buying your tickets in cryptocurrency. Consider  using USDT but first understand tether meaning to know how to go about it. If you have a  specific team or player you want to see, plan accordingly by checking their schedule and  securing tickets early for the best experience. …

4 days ago

Some key players to watch at Euro 2024

FRANCE WIN 14-0 🤯Les Bleus score 14 (FOURTEEN) times vs. Gibraltar for their biggest-ever win.…

6 days ago

Aston Villa vs Liverpool preview, team news, tickets and prediction

Aston Villa are having a very fine season so far in the Premier League. The…

6 days ago

Manchester City vs Wolverhampton Wanderers preview, team news, tickets & prediction

The Premier League run-in, the backend of the title race for Manchester City sees them…

2 weeks ago

Everton vs Nottingham Forest preview, team news, tickets, and prediction

Everton is having a bad season so far, from their poor form in the league…

1 month ago

The Vital Role of Communication on the Soccer Field: Unlocking Success in Leagues

Communication is the heartbeat of any successful soccer team. On the field, amidst the flurry…

1 month ago