Celtic predicted XI vs Hearts: Martin O'Neill makes two changes as he looks to trigger title muscle memory

It all comes down to this for Celtic in their pursuit of the Premiership title as they host Hearts.

Pre match penalty controversy will be parked and all focus will be on what happens inside Parkhead when the game kicks off at 12:30. A Hoops win is enough to see Martin O’Neill claim one of the club’s greatest title triumphs in recent years.

Right-back Alistair Johnston said ahead of the game: “It’s something that I don’t think happens too often. Obviously, leagues can come down to the final day, but the fact that it’s the two teams playing each other as well, makes it extra special. I’ve seen some pretty good atmospheres at Celtic Park, and I have a feeling this one’s going to rival some of the best nights. We’re all really excited for it, it’s great in terms of the fact that both teams know exactly what they need out of the game. We know we need to go and win the match, which makes it really clear for us. And we’re all just ready to get it going.”

Celtic’s title muscle memory is being sought and now a win will see them crowned kings of Scotland again, while anything but will see Hearts lift the trophy, at the end of a final day showdown. With two changes to the side that defeated Motherwell, here’s who we think starts for Celtic against Hearts.

GK - Viljami Sinisalo

Celtic’s number one at the minute and final audition chance for the gig longer term.

RB - Anthony Ralston

Probably the most controversial call but Johnston is just back from hamstring injuries that have hampered his season. That’s got to be in his mind amid a World Cup on home soil with Canada but there’s no doubting he’d relish this. Ralston has been an able deputy and you just wonder whether fitness plays a part here and Johnston is brought on to impact the game late after an hour.

CB - Auston Trusty

Perhaps not been at his best in the post-split shake-up but O’Neill seems to really trust him.

CB - Liam Scales

Irishman has been a rock and would be deserving of another big display in a big game.

LB - Kieran Tierney

Another who looked to be struggling at Parkhead and there’s a World Cup to consider. Can’t see O’Neill not opting for him.

CDM - Callum McGregor

The skipper will be keen to hoist another trophy above his head at full-time.

CM - Arne Engels

Has been a key player since returning from injury and almost certain to start.

CM - Benjamin Nygren

Got a key goal midweek and that goalscoring instinct keeps him in the team.

RW - James Forrest

In these big games, you need your big game players. Forrest has been and done it so often at Celtic, and amid three energy-sapping matches in six days, he comes in for Sebastian Tounekti in the second change.

ST - Daizen Maeda

On fire at the minute and could be playing his final Parkhead match amid summer rumours. Will want to go out with a bang if so.

LW - Yang

Looked a little worse for where at the end of the game at Fir Park but should be fine to go here.