With the first silverware of the season on the line, Brendan Rodgers will put out his strongest lineup for Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup Final against Rangers at Hampden Park.
The team selection looks relatively straightforward, with most key positions settled and only a couple of decisions to ponder.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the predicted Celtic XI:
Goalkeeper
Schmeichel’s experience and recent form make him a certainty to start. The Danish shot-stopper has delivered commanding performances in crucial moments, earning the trust of Rodgers and the fans alike.
Defence
🔹 Right-Back: Alistair Johnston
Johnston’s return to training on Friday is a massive boost. Despite his recent hip issue that saw him substituted at half-time against Dinamo Zagreb, the Canadian’s defensive resilience and attacking support down the right flank make him a key figure in Celtic’s backline. His tenacity and physicality will be needed to contain Rangers’ wide threats.
🔹 Centre-Back: Cameron Carter-Vickers
Carter-Vickers remains Celtic’s defensive lynchpin. His strength, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game are essential, particularly in handling Rangers’ set-piece and physical threats. His composure under pressure will be critical at Hampden.
🔹 Centre-Back: Auston Trusty
Trusty has grown into his role alongside Carter-Vickers, offering pace, strength, and consistency. The American’s performances have earned Rodgers’ trust, and he will be expected to stay solid under pressure and provide a physical presence in both boxes.
🔹 Left-Back: Greg Taylor
Taylor’s experience and familiarity with the intensity of Old Firm derbies make him the preferred option over Alex Valle. While Valle has impressed during his loan spell, Taylor’s defensive discipline and understanding of Rodgers’ system give him the edge for this clash.
Midfield
🔹 Defensive Midfield: Callum McGregor
McGregor’s leadership, experience, and composure on the ball are indispensable. The captain’s ability to dictate the tempo and provide defensive cover will be crucial. His presence ensures stability and balance in midfield.
🔹 Central Midfield: Paulo Bernardo
Bernardo has been in excellent form and has earned his place in the starting XI. His ability to press effectively, link up play, and contribute in the attacking third makes him a vital asset. His recent displays, particularly against Dinamo Zagreb, show he’s ready for a big performance at Hampden.
🔹 Central Midfield: Arne Engels
With Luke McCowan cup-tied and Reo Hatate struggling for form, Engels is likely to get the nod. The young Belgian’s physicality, running power, and ball-winning ability could give Celtic the edge in midfield. His presence will add energy and defensive solidity alongside McGregor and Bernardo.
Attack
🔹 Right-Winger: Nicolas Kuhn
Kuhn has been one of Celtic’s standout performers this season, delivering consistently with goals and assists. His pace, creativity, and direct running will be crucial in breaking down Rangers’ defence. His understanding with Alistair Johnston on the right flank has been improving steadily.
🔹 Striker: Kyogo Furuhashi
Despite Adam Idah’s strong performances off the bench, Kyogo’s big-game pedigree makes him the preferred choice to lead the line. With eight goals in 15 appearances against Rangers, including a brace in the 2022 League Cup Final, Kyogo’s movement, sharp finishing, and knack for exploiting defensive gaps are exactly what Celtic need to unlock Rangers’ backline.
🔹 Left-Winger: Daizen Maeda
Maeda’s relentless work rate and pressing ability make him a crucial part of Rodgers’ tactical plan. His defensive diligence and ability to stretch defences will be vital in both attacking and defensive phases. His pace could pose serious problems for Rangers’ full-backs.
Brendan Rodgers has a squad that is in form and brimming with confidence. The blend of experience, energy, and attacking threat in this lineup should be enough for Celtic to lift the Premier Sports Cup. If Kyogo and the midfield trio can deliver, and the defence remains solid, the Hoops have every chance of securing their first trophy of the season.
