Predicted Celtic XI vs St Mirren

Celtic will look to bounce back swiftly from their Glasgow Derby defeat as they host St Mirren at Celtic Park this weekend.

25th August 2024; St Mirren Park, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Scottish Premiership Football, St Mirren versus Celtic; Reo Hatate of Celtic celebrates after he shoots and scores to make it 2-0 to Celtic in the 33rd minute

With a quick turnaround and the team needing a reaction, Brendan Rodgers could make some tweaks to his starting XI, while sticking largely to his trusted performers.

There were some really poor performances in the derby, and Brendan Rodgers might look to make some changes as a result of that.

Here’s how the Hoops could line up:

Goalkeeper

Kasper Schmeichel
The experienced Dane will retain his spot as Celtic’s No.1, no surprise there.

Defenders

Alistair Johnston: Johnston offers solidity and energy on the right flank, and he’ll look to provide a more consistent attacking outlet.

Cameron Carter-Vickers: The only player with a pass mark for a derby, CCV’s leadership and defensive acumen make him indispensable at the heart of the backline.

Auston Trusty: After Liam Scales struggled at Ibrox, Trusty should return to the starting XI.

Alex Valle: With Greg Taylor inconsistent and links of a potential departure swirling, Valle may get the nod to offer a more attacking dimension on the left.

Midfielders

Callum McGregor: The captain will be tasked with controlling the tempo and ensuring Celtic maintain their composure and urgency in possession.

Arne Engels: Was due to start in the derby but illness kept him out.

Paulo Bernardo: Though he had a quiet game at Ibrox, Bernardo will get the nod ahead of Reo Hatate.

Forwards

Nicolas Kuhn: The German winger’s creativity and goal threat will be vital as Celtic look to rediscover their attacking edge.

Kyogo: Despite a quiet outing in the derby, Kyogo remains Celtic’s talisman in attack. Rodgers may go with Idah, but with Kyogo rediscovering form, I think he’ll stick with the man from Japan

Daizen Maeda: The Japanese international is likely to start, offering relentless pressing and an attacking outlet on the left.

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