Predicted Celtic Lineup To Face Zenit St. Petersburg In The Europa League
Celtic will look to confirm their progression to the next stages of the UEFA Europa League when they face off against Russian side Zenit St. Petersburg in the second leg of their round-of-32 tie.
The Scottish champions go into the game with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, thanks to a late screamer from midfielder Callum McGregor, but failed to register a win in their league game at the weekend. However, manager Brendan Rodgers will be hoping that his side stand up when it matters and deliver the result in Russia.
Team News
Craig Gordon is expected to miss out once again, along with the likes of Dedryck Boyata, Leigh Griffiths, Stuart Armstrong and Jonny Hayes. Patrick Roberts is also unlikely to be involved for the Hoops but they will be boosted by the return of captain Scott Brown, who missed the weekend league game due to suspension. Mikael Lustig and Olivier Ntcham did not feature at the weekend but will be back for the European encounter.
Probable Celtic XI
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Formation: 3-5-1-1
Dorus De Vries (GK)
In Gordon’s injury-enforced absence, Dorus de Vries is once again expected to take the spot between the sticks for Celtic.
Mikael Lustig (CB)
The Swedish defender missed the weekend game, but will be available for selection for Europe and should start as a part of the three-man backline.
Jozo Simunovic (CB)
The Bosnian centre-half was preserved over the weekend and will be reinstated to the playing XI for the trip to Russia.
Kristoffer Ajer (CB)
The young centre-back has been impressing heavily with his composure and ball-playing abilities. Will complete the back three for the Hoops.
James Forrest (RWB)
Celtic’s in-form man in the domestic competitions, Scottish winger James Forrest will hope to have a solid impact against Zenit. Will start as the right wing-back.
Scott Brown (CM)
Having been suspended for the weekend league game, the captain will come into the European clash fresh and well-rested. Will be a major influence on the proceedings.
Kouassi Eboue (CM)
The young midfielder has been quite impressive in the recent games whenever he has got his chances. Should keep his place in the starting line-up.
Olivier Ntcham (CM)
The former Manchester City man was ill over the weekend but will be ready for the European test. Was one of Celtic’s best players in the first leg and will be keen on carrying on from where he left off.
Kieran Tierney (LWB)
The Scotland international did not start the weekend encounter but will find himself as a part of the starting XI against Zenit in the left wing-back position.
Callum McGregor (CAM)
The hero from the first leg, McGregor scored a stunning goal to put his team in a good position. Will be intent on repeating his exploits away from home as well.
Moussa Dembele (ST)
Having been benched for the weekend game, the Frenchman should be given the nod to lead the line in Russia, ahead of Odsonne Edouard.