Predicted Celtic XI to face RB Salzburg in the Europa League
Celtic will face off against Austrian champions RB Salzburg in their second Group B encounter of the 2018/19 UEFA Europa League at Red Bull Arena on Thursday.
The Scottish champions began their Europa League campaign with a 1-0 win over Rosenborg at home two weeks ago, courtesy a late Leigh Griffiths’ strike. Following that game, the Bhoys have won two and lost one of their games in the domestic competitions.
Brendan Rodgers’ side will come into the game on the back of a 1-0 win over Aberdeen but will have a tough task of getting past the group leaders away from home.
Ahead of the encounter, let’s take a look as to how the Hoops might take the field in Austria.
Team News
Celtic will be without centre-back Kristoffer Ajer while Filip Benkovic is also doubtful. Odsonne Edouard is back in training after being injured in the weekend encounter against the Dons.
Manager: Brendan Rodgers
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Craig Gordon (GK)
The veteran Scottish international is the undisputed first-choice for the Hoops and should start between the sticks on Thursday night.
Mikael Lustig (RB)
The Swedish full-back has drawn some ire for his performances of late but remains Celtic’s best option at right-back ahead of Cristian Gamboa.
Jack Hendry (CB)
Given the injuries to Benkovic and Ajer, Jack Hendry should get the nod, despite having failed to convince of his abilities.
Dedryck Boyata (CB)
After his summer antics, the Belgian has turned a corner and has been impressive since returning to the first-team setup. Should partner Hendry at the back at the Red Bull Arena.
Kieran Tierney (LB)
One of the most talented young left-backs across Europe, Kieran Tierney is a guaranteed starter for the Scottish champions week in week out.
Scott Brown (CM)
Club captain Scott Brown is an influential presence in the middle of the park for the Hoops. Brings bite and tenacity to the field and has the ability to start attacks from deep.
Olivier Ntcham (CM)
The Frenchman has grown into a pivotal part of the Hoops’ side. Has scored four and set up one more in 15 appearances across all competitions and should partner Brown in the middle.
James Forrest (RW)
The Scottish international signed a new long-term contract with Celtic recently. With the team struggling for goals, the winger must step up and improve his returns from the right flank.
Tom Rogic (CAM)
The Australian attacking midfielder has the quality and the skill needed to open up defences with his passes. Should start in the No.10 role for the Bhoys.
Callum McGregor (LW)
The 25-year-old Scotsman has been used on the left side by Rodgers in the ongoing campaign and should play ahead of Scott Sinclair, despite the Englishman scoring the winner against Aberdeen.
Leigh Griffiths (ST)
With Edouard returning from a minor injury, the Scottish striker should get the nod to lead the line in Austria, having scored the only goal against Rosenborg in Celtic’s previous European assignment.
