‘Cut you open’ – Jim Goodwin wary of Celtic threat as Dundee Utd warned ahead of Parkhead clash

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Matchday is here and Celtic have the chance to move 16 points clear at the Scottish Premiership summit should they topple Dundee United this evening.

Parkhead is set for sub-zero temperatures as supporters make their way from far and wide to take in the action, but not even a freezing cold night will dampen their enthusiasm ahead of another important clash.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Brendan Rodgers expects a more unified Celtic approach against Dundee United after his fringe stars could only muster a goalless draw against Jim Goodwin’s outfit at Tannadice before Christmas.

The Irishman has decisions to make on whether the Hoops could rotate their starting line-up amid a swift turnaround between tonight’s encounter and an early kick-off against Ross County on Saturday.

With anticipation building ahead of another Scottish Premiership meeting that has significant permutations, the visiting boss has had a thing or two to say to his group before making the trip to Glasgow.

Jim Goodwin is wary of Celtic’s attacking threat

In conversation ahead of Celtic’s clash against Dundee United, Goodwin made it clear that his side need to be wary as the Bhoys have the capacity to ‘cut’ teams open at the drop of a hat.

He stated: “I think Celtic at Parkhead is slightly different to Celtic away from home. However, I thought the overall performance here against them in the 0-0 draw was very good without the ball.

“We recognise that Celtic will dominate possession on Wednesday, as they have done in every game at home. The shape, discipline and concentration levels will need to be sky-high because we know they’re capable on their day; they cut you open.

“We need to make sure those distances are right, then get pace in the team so we can carry a threat on the counterattack is going to be important.”

Celtic hoping to push on after positive reaction vs St Mirren

Last Sunday, Celtic showed green shoots of recovery by defeating St Mirren in the aftermath of an off-day at Ibrox that started the New Year off on a frustrating footing.

Nevertheless, spinning a minor blip into a positive illustrates the mentality of this side and ability to compose themselves before extending the gap once again.

Now, there is a chance to put Rangers under severe pressure ahead of their trip to take on Dundee tomorrow evening. Nothing comes easy in Scottish football, but dealing with the task at hand against Goodwin’s outfit tonight will come with some encouraging incentives.

Most importantly, the onus is on Celtic to continue their momentum. Another three points would help to keep the feelgood factor running as a heavy load of fixtures continue.