Celtic take on St Johnstone this Sunday in their final Scottish Premiership match of 2024 before the New Year celebrations allow a brief moment of reflection.
Brendan Rodgers will be hoping for more of the same from his side after the Bhoys defeated Motherwell 4-0 in their last encounter to move further clear in the league standings.
On the other hand, St Johnstone are bottom of the Scottish Premiership coming into this one and find themselves two points adrift following a loss in the Tayside Derby.
With another quick turnaround on the horizon, Celtic have a Glasgow Derby to contend with days after their assignment against Simo Valakari’s men.
No winter break is a new phenomenon the Bhoys will have to contend with this year. 67 Hail Hail take a look at the runners and riders to start at Parkhead.
Celtic potential XI vs St Johnstone
Opting whether to stick or twist will be important for Rodgers against St Johnstone, with only a short turnaround between the clash and his side’s trip to Ibrox next week.
However, Kasper Schmeichel is certain to retain his place after yet another clean sheet at home to Motherwell on Boxing Day.
Comprising the back four, Anthony Ralston will be given another shot at right-back to help Alistair Johnston gain an appropriate rest ahead of facing Rangers.
Meanwhile, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales retain their places in central defence after a solid showing last time out. Greg Taylor completes the rearguard, but expect to see Alex Valle feature at some point.
Midfield may be a point of contention due to the potential for rotation. Regardless, Callum McGregor starts in his deep-lying role and leads the side out.
After his impressive display against Motherwell, Arne Engels retains his place and Luke McCowan comes in from the beginning with the Glasgow Derby on the horizon.
Nicolas Kuhn is expected to make his way into the line-up following a successful return on Thursday, and Daizen Maeda joins him on the other flank.
Kyogo Furuhashi replaces Adam Idah in attack in a match where he may be offered opportunities to improve his tally for the season.
Your predicted XI in full is as follows: Schmeichel, Ralston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor, McGregor, Engels, McCowan, Kuhn, Maeda, Kyogo.
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