Following a tough start to the new season, Celtic dropped down to the Europa League after bowing out at the hands of Midtjylland 3-2 on aggregate.
Things only got worse though as the Hoops lost their first league opener in 24 years at the hands of Hearts. Ange Postecoglou has been dealt a tough hand at Parkhead, and will be looking to score his first competitive victory away to Czech outfit Jablonec.
Thursday’s opponent’s finished 3rd last season behind the two major capital clubs Slavia and Sparta Prague. They will be looking for a return to form after they were humbled 3-0 at Mlada Boleslav on Saturday.
Celtic could be expected to line up like this:
Joe Hart – The English stopper should immediately slot into the starting 11 as we are very short of quality in that particular position. Hart himself wanted to arrive early to make his debut against the Czech side, so expect to see him starting today.
Anthony Ralston – The usually limited full-back unleashed his inner Cafu at the weekend as he went on a mazy run to earn Celtic’s only goal of the game. He has been one of the most impressive performers in Celtic’s recent game so he will more than likely keep his place.
Nir Bitton – Postecoglou’s starting 11 on Saturday shows he seems to be more confident with the Israeli at the back than young Stephen Welsh, and despite his defensive deficiencies he will start until another centre-back is signed.
Carl Starfelt – The Swede endured a shaky start at Tynecastle, but that is expected as he had only just met his new team mates. He is an Ange Postecoglou signing so he will most definitely start.
Greg Taylor – Boli Bolingoli seems to be out of favour, and Greg Taylor has started every competitive game under the new manager and that will continue tonight.
Ismaila Soro – The Ivorian had a few rash tackles against Hearts, as with most games, but don’t expect the 23-year-old to drop out of the side.
Callum McGregor – Perhaps the most nailed on player start, everything Celtic create runs through him and he will be vital to Celtic today.
David Turnbull – There aren’t many other options who can fill this role, and despite his recent poor performances David Turnbull is a player who can come up with big moments, and we will need one at the Chance Arena
Liel Abada – The 19-year-old has stirred up some excitement down that right hand side, and looks like a real threat going forward. The manager has trusted him in each of his competitive games prior to this so expect that to continue.
Ryan Christie – The wantaway midfielder has been deputised a few times on the left wing this season, and after a poor showing from James Forrest at Tynecastle I fully expect Ryan Christie to start. It’s just a shame that a player who would shine and thrive in the new manager’s system is more than likely headed for the exit door.
Kyogo Furuhashi – Odsonne Edouard really hasn’t impressed this season, and has probably been the player who has come under the most stick from the fans. The 26 year-old forward made a cameo from the bench on Sunday, but with further training and a better understanding of his teammates I expect the new man from Japan to lead the line.
Winning all games (in all competitions) is it beyond this current Hoops side? Yes, I think they will be turned over by Jobbieneck and watch as their flesh melts in the sun. Better get the chequebook out. And sharpish. Remember ‘No excuses.’
You tight fisted cun7s.
Oh really, sounds a bit Govan talk to me. Malmo with rip up the rules against the Sevco, I mean here’s a team who won their first league c/ship and wants to win the CL. If you’re thinking, what I am thinking, it’s a dead cert, mon the Malmo!