Celtic head into the second leg of the Europa League play-off tie against AIK in a good frame of mind. The team seem to have recovered from the loss to Cluj which threatened to derail the season.
The 2-0 win in the first leg over AIK was a comfortable win. That was followed by another good win in the league, as the Hoops defeated Hearts.
However, Neil Lennon will know that a loss to AIK and exit from the Europa League would be a dreadful result for the Hoops.
Hoops boss will select strongest available side
Therefore, even though Celtic face Rangers only three days after the AIK game, expect the Hoops boss to pick the strongest available team.
The Hoops boss will be counting on his veteran players, who have done it all before, to get the Hoops into the group stages.
In goals, Craig Gordon is set to return to replace Fraser Forster. Gordon performed well in the first leg against AIK, although he didn’t have a lot to do.
In defence, Kristoffer Ajer has to continue at right-back. It would be too much of a gamble to play Hatem Abd Elhamed in the game.
The centre-back pairing of Jozo Simunovic and Christopher Jullien will be allowed to continue their partnership, which looks promising.
A big test awaits left-back
At left-back, it will be another big test for Boli Bolingoli.
Midfield will see Scott Brown return to the side after he missed the game against Hearts. His experience will be vital in helping the Hoops clinch a spot in the group stages.
Callum McGregor is the natural partner to Brown in the middle of the park.
When it comes to scoring goals, the attacking trio of James Forrest, Ryan Christie and Mikey Johnston will be vital for the Hoops.
They are more than capable of winning the game for the Hoops. Forrest in particular has been in great form for the Hoops recently.
The lone striker has to be Odsonne Edouard, who has been in excellent form for the Hoops this season.
Here is the team in list form:
GK – Craig Gordon
RB – Kristoffer Ajer
CB – Jozo Simunovic
CB – Christopher Jullien
LB – Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo
CM – Callum McGregor
CM – Scott Brown
RM – James Forrest
CAM – Ryan Christie
LM – Mikey Johnston
ST – Odsonne Edouard
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