Why today is a big one for Celtic as international break comes to an end

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Today is an absolutely colossal day for Celtic with as many as six key players likely to play a part for their countries.

Parkhead supporters have been left scarred after the dreadful September international break. Celtic returned to domestic action with a host of injury problems that led to a dismal month.

So the top priority this time is for our top stars to return from international action in peak condition. We can’t have a repeat of what happened last month, and so far it’s been a major positive for the Hoops with no real concerns to report.

But today, everything comes to a head with a host of key players featuring in their final games with their countries before returning to Glasgow.

It all starts with Japan vs Australia later this morning. Kyogo Furuhashi is likely to play a major role for the Blue Samarai whilst Tom Rogic has been a staple of the Australia team under Graham Arnold. Both men have big responsibilities today, and if both come through unscathed, it’ll be a big early boost for Celtic.

Then tonight, some more big Celtic names will likely take to the field with their respective countries.

Celtic praying for a smooth international break with no concerns

Callum McGregor is highly likely to be front and centre for 90 minutes when Faroe Islands vs Scotland kicks off. The Celtic captain has been part of a dynamic midfield 3 under Steve Clarke, and that likely won’t change today. David Turnbull, meanwhile, is likely to be on the bench.

One of Postecoglou’s first-choice centre-backs Carl Starfelt could also make an appearance with Sweden later on. Whether it be from the bench or an unlikely start, the Swedes are in World Cup qualifying action against Greece.

Israel vs Moldova will also likely see Nir Bitton start after his impressive performance against Scotland on Saturday. He threw himself back into Celtic contention with a dominant display in Aberdeen before the break. It’s fair to say he’s a key option for Postecoglou to have.

Liel Abada has yet to make a first start for Israel. However, given the calibre of opponent they’re up against tonight, it wouldn’t be surprising if he made an appearance. As Celtic’s first-choice right-winger, it’s essential nothing happens to him in the coming hours.

Not to mention Albian Ajeti’s Switzerland will come up against Lithuania this evening in another big World Cup qualifier. Granted, it’s unlikely Ajeti will see any minutes.

So there are a host of matches for Postecoglou and the Celtic support to keep their eye on today, starting with Japan vs Australia. Fingers crossed all of our key men come through them without any issues. If we can come out of the internationals having suffered no setbacks, the manager can be a happy man.

In other news, Steven Caulker believes he should’ve signed for Celtic in 2017