Celtic predicted XI vs Bologna: Martin O'Neill to revert back to full strength for Europa League showdown
Here’s how we think Martin O’Neill will set up his side in the north of Italy.
In what is a huge week for the club, first up for Celtic is a trip to Bologna for European action.
The Hoops have got back to winning ways under the stewardship of Martin O’Neill, who not for the first time this season, has come in and stabilised the club, following the poor run under Wilfried Nancy. The veteran boss will now take charge of his third European game for Celtic this season.
It was two very different performances against FC Mitdjylland, where The Hoops were battered from pillar to post, and Feyenoord, where they earned their first European away win in three years after one of their best performances of the season. Against a solid Bologna side, O’Neill will be hoping for a repeat of Rotterdam. More recently, The Hoops were able to rest the majority of their first team against Auchinleck Talbot in the Scottish Cup, meaning they should have a relatively fresh line up at the Stadio Renata Dell’Ara.
Celtic currently sit 24th in the League Phase table, meaning as it stands they’re sneaking into the knockout stages, however a loss on Thursday night would result in a nail-biting Celtic Park clash against Utrecht on match day eight. With a top of the table clash against Hearts on Sunday to take into account, here’s how we think Martin O’Neill will set up his side against Bologna:
Kasper Schmeichel
The veteran stopper has looked back to his best of late and made some huge saves in their most recent Premiership match against Falkirk. However, we expect him to be tested a lot more in this one.
Colby Donovan
One of the standouts in Rotterdam where he showed maturity beyond his years. With Anthony Ralston out of form and Julian Araujo ineligible, we think he deserves his chance.
Auston Trusty
The mainstay at the back for Celtic got a well earned rest against Talbot and is set to slot straight back in for both fixtures this week.
Liam Scales
Making up a fresh centre-back partnership, the last time Celtic played in Italy they were rock solid against Atalanta, which they will be hoping to emulate.
Kieran Tierney
Fitness will be a worry with two huge matches in the space of four days, but either way the fan favourite has to start.
Callum McGregor
The captain was one of the few mainstays that wasn’t rested against Talbot, but despite being the wrong side of 30, fitness has never been an issue with him throughout his career.
Arne Engels
A player O’Neill seems to admire has come onto a game recently, however previous European games tell us he can blow hot and cold.
Reo Hatate
As the hosts will be looking to control the game, the Japanese maestro could perhaps be the key to putting balls in behind for the front three.
Yang Hyun-jun
Speaking of which, Yang has been a revelation this season despite coming under criticism for his performances in previous years. He now, near enough has his starting XI place secured.
Sebastian Tounekti
Another who can be inconsistent, but also has the potential to be the difference in a match like this. Has looked sharp since returning from AFCON.
Daizen Maeda
As Celtic’s search for a number nine continues, he’ll more than likely be played through the middle, despite him perhaps being more effective out wide.