Celtic face Hearts this Saturday as domestic football returns. The Scottish Champions travel along the M8 to face the Jambos, who are struggling at the bottom of the table. However, as we know, Tynecastle is a difficult venue regardless of the form of the hosts.
Celtic kick off after Aberdeen, meaning that the Hoops may be playing catch up on the Pittodrie side. Brendan Rodgers’ side suffered a 2-0 defeat on their last visit to Tynecastle back in March, which prompted a flawless run towards securing the Premiership title and Scottish Cup.
Team News
A number of Celtic players were away for International Duty but there are no fresh injury concerns. Cameron Carter-Vickers and Adam Idah were able to use the time between fixtures to get themselves back up to full fitness.
Kasper Schmeichel was named in the UEFA Team of the Week for his Nations League output and he will start in goals.
Alistair Johnston signed a new contract until 2029 earlier on Friday and he will likely start at right back with Greg Taylor at left back. Expect American duo CCV and Auston Trusty to continue as the central pairing.
Arne Engels started for Belgium against Italy and Israel and he will likely start with Reo Hatate and skipper Callum McGregor in the centre of midfield.
In attack, Nicolas Kühn and Daizen Maeda will start out wide with Kyogo expected to start through the middle.
Predicted XI: Schmeichel; Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Taylor; McGregor, Engels, Hatate; Kühn, Kyogo, Maeda.
Referee Details
Steven McLean has been named as the referee for the game, taking his first Celtic game since the 3-0 win over St Mirren back in April. The experienced referee will be assisted by Graeme Stewart and Daniel McFarlane, who will run the line.
Meanwhile, at Clydesdale House, Greg Aitken is on VAR duties with Gary Hiland assisting. Celtic were on the end of two shocking decisions from VAR on their last trip to Gorgie and hopefully the Video Assistant Referee does not cause any controversy this weekend.
Kick Off Time
The game kicks off at 19:45 (Celtic Park Time).
Where to Watch
The game will be shown on Sky Sports Football with Chris Sutton & Co bringing in the coverage from the Scottish Capital.