Celtic kick off their defence of the Cinch Premiership this afternoon against Ross County. Following the triumphant campaign last term, Ange Postecoglou departed for Tottenham Hotspur which allowed for the return of Brendan Rodgers. The Irishman will be eager to continue the unprecedented domestic domination that he enjoyed in his first spell, winning seven trophies out of seven.

The visitors from the Highlands will know that they are in for a touch afternoon, especially given that they narrowly avoided the drop last year. Although, they will typically be difficult to break down.

Team News

Joe Hart will start in goals despite the Englishman not featuring against Athletic Club.

In defence, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Tony Ralston came through 45 minutes against the Basque side. It means that the manager will need to decide of a back two between new signing Maik Nawrocki, Carl Starfelt and the USA Internationalist. Tomoki Iwata was at fault for Bilbao’s second and may be ousted in place of the natural full-back Ralston. Greg Taylor will be expected to start at left back.

In midfield, Callum McGregor will start at the base of the central three. It is expected that Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley will join the skipper with David Turnbull and Odin Thiago Holm having to settle for a place on the bench.

In attack, Kyogo will start through the middle with Daizen Maeda on the left and Liel Abada on the right.

Yuki Kobayashi, Marco Tilio, Alistair and Mikey Johnston are unavailable through injury.

Predicted XI: Hart; Taylor, Starfelt, Carter-Vickers, Ralston; McGregor, O’Riley, Hatate; Maeda, Kyogo, Abada.

Kick Off Time

The game kicks off at 12:30pm (Celtic Park Time).

Where to Watch

The game will be on Sky Sports Football with coverage beginning at 11:30am. Chris Sutton will be in his new colours as a Sky Sports pundit.

The match will also be available on Celtic TV for subscribers outside of Britain and Ireland.