Sunday’s game is our biggest of the week, given the circumstances that surrounded the Shaktar game and there being a slim chance of progression to the Europa League. Of course that hope is now over.
Europe this season promised a lot but delivered little in terms of results, but it soon became about the experience and building belief at that level. The first block on Ange’s Champions League club that he aims to build over the next three or four years.
Performances were great but key errors at both ends of the pitch cost us, revealing that the Champions League was just a step too soon for this new squad. Therefore, domestic football is the key this term – not least because League title victory gets us back into the Champions League groups to have a go at putting block number two on Ange’s project.
Celtic enjoy a four point lead at the top of the SPFL table and have been in excellent form. The late winner at McDiarmid Park salvaged victory and restored confidence, which led to a few thrashings being dished out before we overcame Var of Midlothian in a thriller at Tynecastle. Had the rules been applied it would have finished 6-3!
The only blemish on our domestic record this term is the loss at St Mirren. Even the best sides lose once in every 40 or so matches. The Glasgow Derby and a trip to Tynecastle have been overcome – now we face one of our traditionally toughest tests in the shape of a visit to Livingston.
Celtic have only won once on that abysmal plastic pitch in West Lothian, when Ange’s team broke that duck last season. In doing so, the monkey has hopefully been lifted from our back, but it remains an anxiety inducing fixture for now.
With Jota declared fit to play and an array of players in form, the Hoops will be hoping to blow Livi away and repeat last season’s success. Giakoumakis could be key to that, with his physicality up front at a place which traditionally requires a battle.
Whatever happens, it is a crucial game. Especially with Rangers set to face Aberdeen on Saturday, which could present us an opportunity to extend our lead at the top.
I love your optimism, Liam, but I predict at least one VAR Tavpen, and a red card for Aberdeen.