Ange Postecoglou said that his Celtic side will stick to their principles in Norway this evening as they look to seal a stunning comeback against Bodø/Glimt. The Norwegian Champions were clinical in Glasgow’s East End a week ago, running out 3-1 winners despite Celtic dominating the ball. The manager, therefore, needs to set his team to go out, attack and cut the two goal advantage held by the hosts.
Predicting the team is a difficult task, the manager clearly knows what his best XI is but will tinker with it to make sure that everyone performs at the required level.
In goals, Joe Hart will continue. The Englishman is Celtic’s undisputed No.1 since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer.
In defence, Josip Juranovic will start along side the defensive pairing of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Carl Starfelt. However, guessing the fourth player in the back line may be more difficult. Tony Ralston started at RB on Saturday, with Juranovic at LB, meaning Greg Taylor missed out. Although, the manager may prefer to recall Taylor, who will have something to prove after being caught out for two goals.
In midfield, Callum McGregor is a stick on in the holding midfield role. The Celtic captain will likely be joined by Reo Hatate and either Tom Rogic or Matt O’Riley. Hatate’s industry was missed in the first leg as Rogic and O’Riley were overrun by the slick Norwegians. You’d expect the manager will drop one and start the other of the pair. O’Riley got the nod at the weekend but you’d think the Boss would go with his compatriot’s experience away from home.
In attack, Giorgos Giakoumakis has to start following his display at the weekend. The Greek striker netted a hat-trick and was aided by Jota and Maeda on the wings. Postecoglou may decide that this is the best attacking line he could put out, with all three having something to prove following the first leg.
Predicted XI: Hart; Juranovic, Carter-Vickers, Starfelt, Taylor; McGregor, Rogic, Hatate; Maeda, Giakoumakis, Jota.
It is a huge game tonight, we will keep you updated as the manager makes his official team line up later on.
