Celtic travel to Rome this week as they aim to secure their first Champions League win of the season. Taking three points off Lazio will be a tough ask, but their home performance against the Italians will give the Hoops some confidence.
At Parkhead, the Celts put in an admirable display but were ultimately undone by a last-minute winner. This time around, Brendan Rodgers’ mean will be hoping for a different outcome. Ahead of the match, we give you a predicted lineup.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Joe Hart will keep his place between the sticks. At centre-half, it is certain Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales will partner up with Greg Taylor starting at left-back. At right-back, Alistair Johnston will come in for Anthony Ralston.
Midfield
The back four is set, although there is a key debate in the middle of the park. Callum McGregor and Matt O’Riley are certs to get the nod, although the third spot in the Hoops’ engine room is up for grabs.
Odin Holm was hooked at half-time versus Motherwell whilst Paulo Bernardo didn’t even play. David Turnbull came on and scored, though, and I imagine he will start here.
Attack
Up top, Kyogo will play through the middle. Amid the suspension to Luis Palma, and injuries to Liel Abada and Daizen Maeda, Yang will begin on the right.
There are a few players who could play opposite the South Korean but because he was preferred to James Forrest off the bench at the weekend and won a penalty, I am of the opinion Rodgers will elect to, rather controversially, start Mikey Johnston on the left.
Such a move will undoubtedly split opinion, but it is a showing of the state of the available squad at the minute. Things will be tough away to Lazio for Celtic, but Johnston may have an almighty opportunity to show what he can do on the biggest stage.
