Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has made a statement this afternoon by naming a very strong starting XI even with three changes for this afternoon’s clash against Hibernian at Easter Road, with Adam Idah, Luke McCowan, and Greg Taylor returning to the lineup. The trio replaces Jota, Reo Hatate, and Jeffrey Schlupp from the side that faced Bayern Munich on Tuesday.
Rodgers’ selection looks strong on paper, with Celtic sitting thirteen points clear at the top of the table. A win today would bring them a significant step closer to their 55th league title, but Easter Road has not always been a happy hunting ground for the Hoops.
Adam Idah, who has established himself as Celtic’s first-choice striker since Kyogo Furuhashi’s departure to Rennes, will lead the line. The Irish forward offers physicality and a direct threat, and he’ll be eager to make his mark against a Hibs side that can be tough to break down at home.
Nicolas Kühn starts despite concerns over a knock he picked up against Bayern. Given his form this season, Rodgers must be relieved to have him available. Kühn has been a consistent performer, and his inclusion suggests he’s ready to play a crucial role this afternoon.
In defence, Cameron Carter-Vickers continues to marshal the backline, with Auston Trusty alongside him. Greg Taylor, who is out of contract in the summer, comes back in , while Alistair Johnston holds down the right flank. Kasper Schmeichel starts between the sticks as usual.
Arne Engels, Celtic’s record signing at £11 million, will look to control the midfield alongside Callum McGregor and Luke McCowan. Engels has been a pivotal figure in the middle of the park this season, and his influence could be crucial against a Hibs side that thrives on disrupting the opposition’s rhythm.
With a strong bench featuring the likes of Hatate, Jota, and Schlupp, Rodgers has plenty of options if the game demands fresh legs or a change in approach. All eyes will be on how Celtic handle the challenge at Easter Road, knowing that three points today could make the title run-in significantly more comfortable.
Starting XI:
Schmeichel, Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Taylor, McGregor, McCowan, Engels, Kühn, Maeda, Idah
Substitutes:
Sinisalo, Scales, Jota, Yang, Schlupp, Kenny, Hatate, Ralston, Bonnar
