Celtic predicted XI vs Falkirk: Two changes as tried and test attack deployed and plastic pitch considered

Celtic face Falkirk in matchday 12 of the Scottish Premiership this weekend, in a fixture which gives them a great opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the table.

With title rivals Rangers in League Cup action, the Hoops have a chance to go seven points clear at the Falkirk Stadium. After a disappointing 2-2 draw against Dundee United at home to round off the first round of fixtures, manager Martin O’Neill is seeking to bounce back at FK2.

The gaffer has a few selection thinkers ahead of the weekend. Celtic still haven’t made a decision on who their first choice goalkeeper is. Wolves loanee Sam Johnstone has been preferred in recent weeks, but if he were to steal the number one jersey from Viljami Sinisalo, it would be pretty harsh on the Finn after his heroics last season.

At the other end of the pitch, the striker conundrum continues between Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh. The latter started through the middle during midweek but was substituted at half time as his goal drought continues. In turn, Duran, who got on the scoresheet for the 10th time this season, was moved to his preferred position at number nine. This allowed more space for wingers Haissem Hassan and Jota to strut their stuff, while Callum Osmand also caused problems in the first half.

Another thing to consider for the gaffer is the plastic pitch at the Falkirk Stadium - the only ground in the division with an artificial surface. With a growing Celtic injury list of late and a few players only just returning, they can’t afford too many more setbacks. With all that in mind, here’s how we think Celtic will line up against the Bairns on Sunday afternoon:

GK - Viljami Sinisalo

O’Neill confirmed a decision will be made on the permanent number one in the coming week, so the Finn deserves a chance to stake his claim.

RB - Colby Donovan

Some have claimed he should’ve been suspended for this one after a reckless tackle against the Tangerines. However, he is slowly becoming a very important part of the back four in Alistair Johnston’s absence.

CB - Dane Murray

Cameron Carter-Vickers is available, but doesn’t need to be thrust back in on the artificial surface with his injury record. Murray has been a solid stand-in so far.

CB - Liam Scales

Saved his side at Celtic Park through the week with his late equaliser and has become more of a leader this season.

LB - Kieran Tierney

More frequent 90 minute matches for the Scotland international this season. Although again, with the surface, if there’s an opportunity to rest him then it will likely be taken.

CM - Callum McGregor

Captain isn’t in his best form but remains the first name on the team sheet. Needs a rest but not a tough away fixture of this magnitude.

CM - Mika Baur

The German international carries a constant threat with his late runs into the box. Perhaps he can be another source of goals from midfield.

AM - Benjamin Nygren

When he doesn’t trouble the scoresheet he can go missing. But the Swede’s attacking numbers can’t be ignored. Nailed on.

RW - Haissem Hassan

No Duran on the right for this one as the pacy Egyptian regains his place. His direct style would give Falkirk something to think about if he starts.

LW - Callum Osmand

Perhaps not ideal given his injury record, but the alternatives would Jota, who is just easing himself back in, and Sebastian Tounekti, who has fallen off the face of the earth in recent weeks. Again, Osmand would provide lightening pace on the left hand side.

ST - Camilo Duran

No room for Hogh in this one as the Colombian reverts back to his preferred position. It would give the Hoops the same front three that inspired the 7-1 victory over Hearts two weeks ago. Plus, Duran bagged himself a double at Celtic Park when the sides met in August.