BRENDAN RODGERS will today take no chances with the fitness of Kieran Tierney, who limped off with ten minutes remaining in Norway on Wednesday night. The manager has one eye on Wednesday’s visit from AEK Athens and wants to ensure that Tierney is 100% fit for that crucial match.
The 21 year old Celtic star, who yesterday spoke about how much Flag Days means to him – see HERE – will be on the bench for the opening league match of the season against Livingston.
Jonny Hayes is in line for his first start since breaking his leg at Dens Park on Boxing Day last year and should play as a left wing back as Brendan Rodgers alters his system to accommodate the changes.
Jozo Simunovic is also a likely starter – having now served his two match UEFA ban over the to legs against Rosenborg he is free from suspension and available for the AEK Athens game, so today will offer the chance to get some game-time in his legs.
Derrick Boyata won’t be risked today but the three other World Cup Celts are available and should feature.
Leigh Griffiths will start on the bench and is expected to replace Odsonne Edouard well before the latter stages. Moussa Dembele is still around three weeks away from being back in the side.
Kick off is at 3pm but be early for Danny McGrain.
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Danny is featured in Jim Craig’s article this morning – the contrast between him and the other ex-Celtic star mentioned could not be more stark.
