Celtic have been busy training in the United States over the last few days but the tour across the Atlantic officially starts tonight with a match against DC United at Audi Field.
Ticket sales have been healthy for the fixture with more than 18,000 expected inside the 20,000-capacity venue. It’s a great chance for American-based Celtic fans to see the Bhoys in action.
For Brendan Rodgers, it’s all about building fitness in his team ahead of the Scottish Premiership kick-off on August 4th. After matches against Ayr United and Queen’s Park in Scotland, this one will be a step up in intensity and quality.
Big names including Callum McGregor and Greg Taylor have returned to training after extended breaks. Cameron Carter-Vickers isn’t expected to start, however, as he only joined the group towards the end of the week while Alistair Johnston is still on holiday. Maik Nawrocki is injured after picking up a calf issue away to Ayr.
Potential Celtic team vs DC United
It could be a big night for new goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo, who signed for the club earlier this week and has been involved in training sessions already. Scott Bain is also a contender with youth options Tobi Oluwayemi and Josh Clarke travelling with the squad. Kasper Schmeichel has not yet been spotted working with the group so his debut isn’t expected.
Given the lack of other options, Anthony Ralston is a good bet to feature on the right flank depending on his fitness. The rest of the defensive line could involve Stephen Welsh, Liam Scales and Greg Taylor to start with.
In midfield, it’d be great to see captain Callum McGregor back involved with Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley also available to give a strong look to the central area.
Kyogo Furuhashi has scored four times in his first two pre-season games and he’ll be a danger if he gets the nod. Complemented by Nicolas Kuhn and Daizen Maeda, Rodgers could end up fielding a pretty strong eleven.
Regardless of who starts, there will be massive changes throughout the 90 minutes. Rodgers has used over 20 players in both pre-season matches so far.
Your Predicted XI in full is: Sinisalo, Ralston, Welsh, Scales, Taylor, McGregor, Hatate, O’Riley, Kuhn, Maeda, Kyogo.
How to watch Celtic vs DC United, kick-off time
The match kicks off in the early hours of Sunday morning at 00:30 for those of us in Scotland. That’s a local time in Washington of 19:30 on Saturday.
No TV station is broadcasting the fixture but live coverage is available via club streaming service Celtic TV. Fans in the UK, Ireland and around the world will have access.
There are no pay-per-view options so those keen on watching will have to shell out for a subscription.
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