Celtic predicted XI vs Dundee as record-breaking transfer addition set for debut in Premiership curtain-raiser
Here’s how we think Martin O’Neill will set his side up on Monday night
Celtic boss Martin O’Neill is set to give new £11m signing Kasper Hogh his Hoops debut in their Premiership opener at Parkhead against Dundee.
The match - which kicks off at 7:30pm (BST) - will give Celtic fans the opportunity to see their record-breaking incoming transfer in action for the first time under the Parkhead lights. However O’Neill must decide whether to thrust him in from the start alongside fellow new boy Camilo Duran, or keep him on the bench so he can receive a warm welcome.
Standing in their way will be Dundee, managed by former Celt Steven Pressley - who signed a new deal at Dens Park earlier in the week. The last time he took his squad to East End of Glasgow, they were seconds away from causing an almighty Scottish Cup upset, which was saved by former loanee Junior Adamu and winger Sebastian Tounekti. Here’s how we think Celtic will set up against the Dark Blues:
Viljami Sinisalo
The Hoops stopper was a more than capable replacement for Kasper Schmeichel last season and has the number one burden of responsibility on himself now.
Alistair Johnston
Canadian has been linked with a move to Everton but remains the number one choice in this area.
Cameron Carter-Vickers
A welcome sight back to the defence after his ACL injury last season. A huge player for the season ahead.
Auston Trusty
Liam Scales will be serving the first of a two-match suspension on Monday night, meaning it’s likely to be an all-American partnership at the back.
Kieran Tierney
The only realistic first team option at left back following the collapsed talks of Marcelo Saracchi. The Scotland international is a nailed on starter, but without cover, his fitness record could be cause for concern going forward.
Callum McGregor
The Hoops skipper has played down any speculation of him leaving in the summer. His focus appears to lie solely on matters at Parkhead, starting with Monday night.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
After signing a new one-year deal, the veteran midfielder claims he’s raring to go again. He’ll add some experience to the midfield.
Luke McCowan
Former Dundee man has looked sharp in pre-season. Also was the scorer of the only goal in Celtic’s last Premiership opener against St Mirren last season.
Yang Hyun-jun
The Korean winger is clearly a player O’Neill admires and is a thorn in the side of any defence with his work rate. Scored the winner in last home league clash against the Dark Blues.
Kasper Hogh
Big expectations for the Dane as the most expensive signing ever for the Hoops. The price tag indicates he’s a nailed on starter.
Camilo Duran
The other big-money addition has excelled in pre-season. Hoops fans will be hoping he can continue his goal per game ratio. Might be forced out to the left hand side to accommodate Hogh, but he’s been deployed there before for previous club Qarabag.