Celtic face Aberdeen tomorrow afternoon as The Scottish Champions look to bounce back from the defeat to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. Celtic were beaten heavily by the La Liga outfit, who capitalised on Brendan Rodgers’ side losing Daizen Maeda to a questionable red card in the first half. Aberdeen themselves arrive having been on European duty during the week, drawing with Greek side PAOK.
Team News
Celtic go into the game without Daizen Maeda, who is out after the incident that resulted in his dismissal in Madrid. The Japanese attacker sprained his medial knee ligaments as he collided with the Atleti defender Hermoso, which saw his dismissal. Also missing is Liel Abada, who is not expected back until next month at the earliest. It is fair to say that the 22-year-old has been a big miss for Celtic, especially in Europe.
The manager will need to decide whether he makes any significant changes to his team ahead of the game against Barry Robson’s Dons. You would imagine that there might be a few changes, especially given that there are injuries and suspensions in the wide area (Palma in Europe).
Expect Joe Hart to start in between the sticks, with the Englishman likely hoping for a quiet afternoon.
In defence, Tony Ralston may come in for Alistair Johnston, who looked leggy in Madrid. However, you would expect the Canadian to continue with Greg Taylor at left back. Brendan may look to reshuffle his central pairing as he manages Carter-Vickers’ minutes but you’d imagine that he will stick with the pairing that started during the week.
Paolo Bernardo and David Turnbull are competing to assume Reo Hatate’s role in the Celtic midfield, you would expect that the former Motherwell man returns to the Starting XI to join Matt O’Riley and skipper Callum McGregor. Odin Thiago Holm is an outsider to get a start as he continues to impress in cameos.
In attack, Kyogo will start through the middle. With Maeda out, you would imagine Luis Palma and Yang will start. James Forrest, Mikey Johnston and Marco Tilio could also be required to come into the squad.
Predicted XI: Hart; Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor; McGregor, Turnbull, O’Riley; Yang, Kyogo, Palma.
Match Officials
Willie Collum will referee the match. He will be assisted by Paul McAvinue and Graeme Stewart, who will run the line. Chris Graham has been installed as Fourth Official.
Kick Off Time
The game kicks off at 14:30 (Celtic Park Time).
Where to Watch
The game is part of Sky Sports’ double header on Sunday with coverage from Paradise following Livingston’s game against theRangers. The game will be shown on Sky Sports Football, with coverage starting at 14:15.
