This predicted XI comes at a difficult time for Celtic. The Hoops have just been soundly defeated in Europe, and now face a daunting trip to Kilmarnock’s plastic pitch.
It’s all about winning for the Hoops at Rugby Park, as any slip-ups could let Rangers into the title race. The predicted XI is bold and has been chosen with one thing in mind – winning.
Scott Bain should keep his place in goal even though he didn’t have the greatest night against Valencia. Six clean sheets in a row before the Valencia game must not be discarded.
At right-back, Jeremy Toljan is likely to keep his place. But there should be a change at left-back. Emilio Izaguirre played dreadfully against Valencia. His place in the side should be taken by Kieran Tierney.
Tierney stepped up his training following the game last night and that surely must be with a view to starting him against Killie. In the centre of defence, Dedryck Boyata seems certain to start, with Jozo Simunovic partnering him.
In the middle of the park, the familiar trio of Scott Brown, Callum McGregor and Ryan Christie are more than likely to start. None of three particularly impressed against Valencia, but all are more than capable of putting on a show at Rugby Park.
The two wingers who started against Valencia, James Forrest and Scott Sinclair, should retain their places in the side.
However, another change comes up-front. Odsonne Edouard has shown enough in his recent cameo appearances that he should replace Oliver Burke.
Here is the predicted team in list form:
GK – Scott Bain
RB – Jeremy Toljan
CB – Jozo Simunovic
CB – Dedryck Boyata
LB – Kieran Tierney
CM – Scott Brown
CM – Callum McGregor
RM – James Forrest
CAM – Ryan Christie
LM – Scott Sinclair
ST – Odsonne Edouard
That team is more than good enough to banish the memory of the Valencia game – for a few days anyway – and bring home a vital three points for the Hoops.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
