Celtic predicted XI vs Aberdeen as Martin O'Neill ponders Camilo Duran dilemma and defensive replacement
Here’s how we think Martin O’Neill will set up his side in their Premiership clash with Aberdeen
Celtic seek to continue their flawless start to the Scottish Premiership season against Aberdeen at home on Wednesday night.
The Hoops defeated Falkirk 2-1 last weekend in front of their own fans - but despite the win, there was a slightly eerie atmosphere at Celtic Park after their Champions League disaster last week against LASK Linz. While the Austrian capitulation may never be forgotten - a run of domestic and European victories would help soften the blow.
Manager Martin O’Neill played striker Camilo Duran through the middle against the Bairns in the injured Kasper Hogh’s absence. As the Colombian secured a first half double, he may be tempted to keep him there for the foreseeable. With that, as well as some other selection headaches for the Hoops boss to ponder, here’s how we think he’ll set up his team on Wednesday night against Aberdeen, using the 4-3-3 formation:
GK - Viljami Sinisalo
The Hoops are leaving it late to sign a goalkeeper leaving the Finn as the only viable number one option. He’s proved to be a solid replacement for the retired Kasper Schmeichel between the sticks.
RB - Colby Donovan
It was a forgettable afternoon for the defender after his own goal against Falkirk - but he remains ahead of Anthony Ralston in the right back selection pecking order while Alistair Johnston remains out.
CB - Cameron Carter-Vickers
The dependable stopper has played a lot of games recently which could be a slight worry given his fitness record. However, when fit, he’s nigh on undroppable.
CB - Auston Trusty
Should be well-rested after being benched at the weekend. Another dependable figure at the back in recent weeks for the Hoops.
LB - Liam Scales
Central defender slotted in on the left after Kieran Tierney went off injured at the weekend. O’Neill confirmed this ‘wasn’t cramp’ as an anxious wait incurs to find out the severity of the knock. With few other options the Irishman may be asked to move over again.
CM - Callum McGregor
Mr Celtic missed the weekend’s clash with a stomach bug but should be back raring to go against the Dons. Visibly devastated after their European heartbreak, the captain will be chomping at the bit to make amends on the grass.
CM - Mika Baur
Not afraid to drift forward, the German maestro looks to be a very tidy player. He’s only played four games for the club but looks like he’s been there for years.
AM - Benjamin Nygren
Had scored in every domestic match before the weekend where he was kept fairly quiet. Not at his best of late but his attacking output record means he simply has to stay in the team.
RW - Haissem Hassan
The direct, pacy winger was a thorn in the side of the Bairns defence and showed glimpses of his form from the World Cup. An exciting player Hoops fans will want to see more of.
LW - Yang Hyun-jun
A coin toss between him and fellow winger Sebastian Tounekti for the left wing role. However the Korean has a bit more energy which could give him an edge.
ST - Camilo Duran
If it ain’t broke don’t fix it. He scored two strikers goals in his preferred position on Saturday and looked lively throughout. Even when Hogh returns from injury there is a case to made for Duran down the middle.