Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton believes the Hoops World Cup stars must come back firing and continue their momentum.
Ange Postecoglou confirmed in his pre-match press conference before the trip to Pittodrie that Cameron Carter-Vickers, Aaron Mooy and Daizen Maeda we’re all fit and available.
The three men helped their respective countries to the last 16 of the tournament with fellow teammate Josip Juranovic reaching the semi final with his Croatian side.
Juranovic will be given a week off so isn’t likely to return for the Scottish champions until after Christmas with Anthony Ralston set to step in.
Celtic went into the World Cup break after a strong start to the season domestically having booked their place in the semi final of the Viaplay Cup and also having one every game in the league apart from the disappointing performance against St Mirren.
”It’s crucial for Ange Postecoglou and his team to ensure they come screaming back out the traps at full pelt today in Aberdeen to show that hold ups and stoppages won’t be halting their momentum in terms of the title race,” said Chris Sutton speaking in the Daily Record.
“Put it this way, if the Premiership hadn’t stopped when it did and the pattern continued in the way it was unfolding, the title race could have been over by the time Santa Claus got his white beard dirty sliding down the chimney.
“But it did and, from a Celtic perspective, they must make sure they are stamping their authority on it all once again starting at Pittodrie. I’ve no doubt that Postecoglou has the squad and the set-up to ensure that happens, no matter any effects of the World Cup halt.”
The clash against Aberdeen will be tough with the Dons having not lost at home in the league since August but Celtic’s record at Pittodrie has been impressive in recent years and they will hope to once again retain the nine point advantage at the top of the SPFL Premiership.
Carter-Vickers is the only likely starter out of Celtic’s returning World Cup stars as he could feature alongside Carl Starfelt in defence.
