Celtic predicted XI vs St Mirren as super sub thrown in from the get-go as verdict made on returning star
Here’s how we think Martin O’Neill will set up his starting XI against the Buddies on Saturday
Celtic return to Parkhead for their first home fixture in nearly a month against a St Mirren side clawing their way back up the table in their relegation dogfight.
It was a huge win for Martin O’Neill’s men at Dundee last weekend in a city that hadn’t previously been a happy hunting ground for them. Substitute, Kelechi Iheanacho’s late winner at Dens Park on his return from injury has put him in starting XI contention for this weekend as he sealed the Hoops’s first victory on Tayside this season. As they now prepare for a completely different task against the Buddies, Arne Engels could also be available for selection following a lengthy sideline.
Both Celtic’s previous league encounters with St Mirren have been late 1-0 wins, however the Paisley side reigned supreme in December’s League Cup final. As the teams now prepare for another Hampden showdown in the Scottish Cup semi-final next weekend, the league fixture will give O’Neill and Craig McLeish a good opportunity to size each other up before the all-or-nothing clash. The Saints have won their last two on the bounce under their new interim boss and looking to build some momentum going into the split. Here’s how we think the Celtic boss will set up his side on Saturday:
Viljami Sinisalo
With Kasper Schmeichel now out of the picture, the coast is clear for the Finn to become the number one choice. Having started the last seven between the sticks for the Hoops, so far he’s grabbed his opportunity with both hands.
Anthony Ralston
With Julian Araujo and Alistair Johnston out, as well as the uncertainty surrounding Colby Donovan as he awaits a scan result, Ralston is the only recognised right back currently available.
Auston Trusty
Following various injuries and suspension, he’s had to be patient in waiting for his return to the starting XI. Played against Dundee and is likely to keep place ahead of Brentford loanee, Benjamin Arthur.
Liam Scales
The mainstay at the back under O’Neill despite recent inconsistencies. The Irishmen is now one of the senior member of the side and will have a big job on his hands on Saturday to nullify the physical threat of Saints striker, Dan Nlundulu.
Kieran Tierney
Minutes have slightly improved for the Scotland international compared to the start of the season, as he’s now started Celtic’s last eight league games. However, second choice left back, Marcelo Saracchi is also likely to play a part at some point.
Callum McGregor
The Dundee win was the first time the captain has completed 90 minutes since early March as he regains full fitness. He grabbed a spectacular last minute winner when the sides met in Paisley in November.
Luke McCowan
Celtic’s other match winner against The Buddies this season grabbed the winner in the 87th minute on flag day at Parkhead. Since then, he’s been in and out the team, but impressed in his 20 minute cameo against Dundee.
Benjamin Nygren
Celtic’s output machine bagged another assist at Dens Park as he looked to be at his best again. He now leads the league’s charts in terms of goal contributions.
Yang Hyun-jun
Scored the opener last weekend as he made up for a previous poor showing at Tannadice. His endless work rate could provide problems for the Saints defence.
Daizen Maeda
He may not have scored since January 10, but the work Celtic’s Duracell bunny gets through off the ball makes him a nailed on starter every week despite his poor numbers. Likely to be deployed on the left rather than through the middle.
Kelechi Iheanacho
The hero at Dens has had a season plagued by injuries, but his recent performance showed he can be a match winner. After a poor display from Tomas Cvancara last time around, the Nigerian is well-placed to be thrust in from the start.