Celtic’s final away match of the Premiership season has been pushed back to an 8pm kick-off, with Sky Sports opting to broadcast the trip to Pittodrie live. Originally pencilled in for a 7.45pm start, the game against Aberdeen will now be played under the floodlights on Wednesday, 14 May, giving fans across the country a chance to tune in.
While the league title is already secured, Brendan Rodgers and his squad won’t be easing off. With the Scottish Cup final just around the corner — against Aberdeen— the game offers the perfect opportunity to keep things ticking over and maintain momentum heading into Hampden.
Rodgers is likely to use the game to manage minutes wisely, striking a balance between keeping the team sharp and giving some key players a breather. Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda have all put in heavy shifts over the course of the season and may be afforded some rest. Likewise, in defence, we could see changes. Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Greg Taylor have been regular starters this season and might sit this one out to avoid any unnecessary risks.
It also presents an opportunity for some of the squad’s fringe players to make their mark ahead of the Scottish Cup final. With places in the matchday squad still up for grabs, those given a chance will be determined to catch the manager’s eye. Viljami Sinisalo, expected to retain his place between the sticks in Kasper Schmeichel’s absence, will be aiming to build on his recent performances. The young Finn has shown composure when called upon, and with a domestic treble still in sight, he’ll be looking to play his part in what could be a memorable first season at Celtic.
Despite the league being wrapped up, there’s no suggestion Rodgers will allow the intensity to drop. Aberdeen will be up for it — they’ve still got third place to play for under Jimmy Thelin, and they’ll want to lay down a marker ahead of the final. That alone makes this midweek game one to keep an eye on.
Under the lights, live on telly, and with silverware still on the horizon — it might be a ‘dead rubber’ on paper, but don’t expect Celtic to treat it that way.
