Celtic make the trip to Rugby Park this weekend in the last 16 of the Viaplay Cup. It will in no way be an easy tie for the Bhoys, as Kilmarnock have started the season on hot form.
The Hoops will be aiming for nothing but victory as they look to progress and take a step closer to winning the league cup for the third season running. Ahead of Sunday’s match, CeltsAreHere gives you a predicted lineup.
In goal, Joe Hart will, in all likelihood, get the nod meanwhile, at right back, Anthony Ralston will continue. At left back, I back Alexandro Bernabei to get his chance and start over Greg Taylor.
Maik Nawrocki will start for the third match running at the heart of defence, although Cameron Carter-Vickers will not be risked. Despite admitting he is fit and available for Sunday, I don’t think new signing Gustaf Lagerbielke will start either and rather Stephen Welsh will get the nod.
In midfield, captain Callum McGregor is a cert to start and Matt O’Riley will play in the advanced role. Reo Hatate is set for a prolonged spell out and won’t play in this one. I believe Odin Thiago Holm will start where the Japanese international usually does.
Kyogo will undoubtedly get the nod up top. On the right, Liel Abada will continue and although it is not his usual position, Yang will start on the left in place of Daizen Maeda after his wonderful assist at Pittodrie on Sunday.
On the bench, there will be places for the likes of David Turnbull, Kwon, Greg Taylor and Sead Haksabanovic.
Although this lineup is not a first-choice one, it provides several opportunities for players who are on the fringes of the squad. Sunday marks the start of a run of games where Odin Thiago Holm will look to cement a place in the starting eleven amid Hatate’s unavailability.
Yang deserves his chance after a few impressive cameos and young Bernabei will look to put his alarm clock troubles behind him. We will find out exactly who gets the nod on Sunday at 1.45pm. It is fair to say that whatever side Rodgers picks will be capable of progressing to the last eight.
