Celtic predicted XI vs Besiktas: Four changes as Falkirk benchwarmers return to fold and Wolves loanee dropped

Celtic boss Martin O’Neill has a few selection thinkers on his hands this Thursday as his side face Turkish giants Besiktas in the Europa League.

The Hoops are yet to get off the mark in the league phase following three successive defeats to Ferencvaros, Benfica and Celta Vigo. As matchday four approaches, Celtic must find a way to compete in Europe sooner rather than later, or they’ll risk failing to qualify for the knockout stages. They currently sit 35th of 36 in the standings - and have five games to get themselves in the top 24.

However, the games aren’t getting any easier with the Istanbul giants coming to town. Besiktas currently sit eighth in the table and drew with Conference League champions Crystal Palace in their last outing despite going down to 10 men. Meanwhile, Celtic’s recent European struggles have extended to their domestic campaign over the past week, after they drew with Dundee United at home last Wednesday before losing to Falkirk away at the weekend.

The 2-0 defeat to the Bairns means it’s now six losses in 10 for Celtic in all competitions. O’Neill made three changes for their trip to the Falkirk Stadium to no avail. With that in mind, here’s how he could set up his starting XI on Thursday night, using the 4-3-3 formation:

GK - Viljami Sinisalo

Sam Johnstone looks like he’s close to snatching the number one jersey - but he hasn’t exactly set the world alight. Sinisalo hasn’t been at his best either, however he deserves more of a chance to stake his claim based on last season alone.

RB - Colby Donovan

Young defender has stepped in seamlessly for Alistair Johnston and has arguably Celtic’s most consistent performer. With the Canadian out until the international break, Donovan is nailed on until then.

CB - Dane Murray

Lost his place at the weekend to Cameron Carter-Vickers, who didn’t cover himself in glory for either Falkirk goal. Given Murray’s strong form he perhaps could count himself unlucky to be dropped at FK2 - and could slot straight back in.

CB - Liam Scales

Mixed bag of recent performances from the Irish international of late. With Auston Trusty still dealing with a family bereavement, he remains the only viable option at left centre-half.

LB - Kieran Tierney

O’Neill confirmed he suffered ‘a couple of knocks’ at Falkirk but if he’s fit he’ll have to start with very few other left back options. However, he might need a rest soon given his unfortunate injury record.

CM - Callum McGregor

Captain isn’t at his best but still remains the first name on the team sheet. Will need help from his teammates patrolling the midfielder if Celtic are to get something from the game.

CM - Mika Baur

German international played a slightly higher role at Falkirk but should revert back to central midfield for this one. Found the target in their last European match against Celta Vigo.

AM - Benjamin Nygren

Back in for Oxlade-Chamberlain, the Swede can sometimes go missing in games of this magnitude but his attacking numbers make him nigh on undroppable.

RW - Camilo Duran

Deployed through the middle at Falkirk in his favoured position but failed to deliver. He’s proven already he can still do a job out wide.

LW - Callum Osmand

Pace. Celtic will need it and he has it in abundance. Osmand proved in the first half against Celta that he can cause problems at this level.

ST - Kasper Hogh

Slightly controversial given his goal drought - but the Dane gives Celtic an out-ball. He’s proven from his time at Bodo Glimt he can do it at this level.