Celtic are coming off the international break on strong form, having not lost a single match in the Scottish Premiership this season so far. However, there are some potential worries that the Glasgow club might have, with a recent embarrassment in Europe potentially looming large. Find out more about the threat that Motherwell might offer to the league leaders, how the Steelmen are expected to play in the match and what we could see when the two sides clash.
Celtic and Motherwell’s Form So Far
Domestically, the Bhoys have been performing exactly as you’d expect from the side. Draws against Hibernian and St Johnstone earlier in the season are the only points dropped so far, with a clean sheet over Rangers and nine points from their most recent two games stamping the club’s authority on the division. However, poor performances in Europe could be a hit to the confidence, with a 6-0 loss to Atletico potentially playing on the minds of players.
Motherwell have been far from at their best recently, performing well below par. Their last win in the league was at the start of September in a match where they were dominated, yet managed to sneak a 1-0 victory over Hearts. Two points in their last nine fixtures won’t be enough to keep them competitive in the league, as recent form shows the side should be fairly easily dealt with by Brendan Rodgers’ men.
Motherwell Tactical Preview
In attack, Motherwell shouldn’t cause too many problems for the home side. They tend to focus on winning the ball in dangerous situations, turning defence into attack quickly and then using individual skill to try and force a chance. Typically this comes through Stephen O’Donnell, with Greg Taylor likely to be responsible for shutting down attacks down that flank. After they score, attempting to hold the lead is the next priority for Stuart Kettlewell, with efficient defending being the priority.
They are fairly happy to play without the ball thanks to their back five, in addition to a midfield duo that are happy to screen the defensive line. Although this is, in theory, one of the best ways Motherwell can slow their opposition down, a creative and individually skilled side such as Celtic should be able to cut through with relative ease.
Celtic Injury Concerns
Brendan Rodgers has a few concerns to be aware of in this match, with the wings being particularly impacted. Liel Abada is still missing due to a torn thigh muscle that has kept him on the sidelines for an extended period, whilst Daizen Maeda’s ligament injury means that he could still miss another month of football. Reo Hatate is also set to miss out due to an ongoing hamstring injury, with an expected return set to be in the New Year.
There are still some risks for Celtic to face off with, as Liam Scales is a single booking away from a yellow card. That, combined with the wear and tear players have to deal with on international duty, means that Rodgers may have to take some care with his team selection.
Celtic Predicted Lineup vs Motherwell
Veteran goalkeeper Joe Hart starts in net, protected by a consistent centre-back pairing of Liam Scales and Cameron Carter-Vickers. Greg Taylor and Alistair Johnson at wing-back will have plenty of license to roam, as Callum McGregor plays a relatively defensive midfield role alongside Matt O’Riley and Odin Holm.
Luis Palma continues an impressive season out on the left wing, with Yang Hyun-Jun on the right. Kyogo Furuhashi’s impressive campaign will likely continue as the forward will have lots of chances against the Motherwell defence.
Celtic vs Motherwell Predictions and Odds
Although football can always have a surprise in store, it doesn’t seem especially likely in this fixture according to the top sportsbook apps. The home side’s strong domestic form is likely to sweep the visitors aside, with Brendan Rodgers’ men coming in at 1/7 in comparison to Motherwell’s distant 20/1.
