Martin O’Neill has addressed his call on James Forrest, also addressing the return of Alistair Johnston.
Forrest has been handed his first start since January, having been used much more often from the bench since then.
Johnston is in a matchday squad for the first time since October, and could give Celtic a major upgrade in the right-back position for the run-in.
Speaking ahead of the game, O’Neill discussed both players.
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On Forrest, the Parkhead boss told Sky Sports: “Obviously, I’m hoping that he will give us the same sort of impetus as he has done from off the bench.
“He’s been a game changer for us, and that sort of thing.
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“So listen, he deserves a start, and we’ll see how it goes — but he can create things for us, and that’s what we’re looking for today.
On Johnston, the interim boss said: “Positive news for the football club, you know, really.
“We’ve obviously missed him for nearly 85% of the season, so he’s getting back, and it’ll be great if he is properly fit by the time, you know…
“We’ve got these games now, first one today, and you know, a number of matches between now and the end of the season.
“So [it’s] up to him, but he has done very very well to fight back.”
It’s just a third league start of the season for Forrest, who starts in place of Sebastian Tounekti, who drops to the bench.
Johnston’s presence will be of much importance given the absence of Julian Araujo, who won’t play again for Celtic this season.
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