Celtic return to the European stage knowing that three points against Young Boys will essentially secure a place in the Champions League play-off round. Should they manage this, it will be the first time since 2013 that the Hoops have taken part in a Champions League knockout tie. Standing in their way is a struggling Swiss outfit that sit rock bottom of the Champions League table and ninth in their respective league. At Last Word on Football, we provide our Celtic predicted lineup as they look to return to the latter stages of the tournament.
Celtic Predicted Lineup vs Young Boys
How Celtic Have Lined up Recently
Kasper Schmeichel has played every game so far for Brendan Rodgers. Of the six group-stage games, the Dane has started each one, with Alistair Johnson in front of him on the right side. Cameron Carter-Vickers has missed just one clash and has usually played beside Auston Trusty. Greg Taylor has missed just one game at left-back.
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In midfield, Callum McGregor has started each game. Reo Hatate and Arne Engels both have five starts to their name, while Paulo Bernardo has two and Luke McCowan has featured off the bench frequently.
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Daizen Maeda and Nicolas Kuhn have been the go-to wingers meanwhile Kyogo has started the majority of matches up top, with Idah only leading the line in Atalanta.
Celtic’s Recent Form and Tactics
After six games, Celtic have nine points. On the whole, it’s been a positive campaign for the Champions. Just one loss (albeit a heavy one), stunning home victories over Bratislava and Leipzig plus a defensively resolute performance in Bergamo, means that they are in an excellent position to qualify.
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Critics would point to an easy draw. With trips to Aston Villa, Atalanta and Borussia Dortmund, you could certainly argue otherwise. Moreover, you can only beat who is in front of you.
Celtic will likely approach this one the way they did against Bratislava in the opening contest: with intensity and aggression. With Young Boys so low in confidence and form, they truly are there for the taking.
Injuries to Consider
James Forrest remains the only absentee for this tie.
Celtic Predicted Lineup
Kasper Schmeichel
Alistair Johnson
Cameron Carter-Vickers
Auston Trusty
Greg Taylor
Callum McGregor
Arne Engels
Reo Hatate
Nicolas Kuhn
Kyogo
Daizen Maeda
