Ahead of Celtic’s clash with Barcelona, we at Read Celtic will role-play (not that kind) and predict the starting XI.
We will be playing the role of Brendan Rodgers, and choosing the starting XI and how the team are expected to line-up on the pitch.
It also includes a bit of insight into what we expect from each player, and what they can do to make the difference.
Brendan Rodgers’ side go into the game off the back of a 1-1 draw in Kazakhstan against Astana, whilst it is Barcelona’s opening game of their season.
It’s their second game in the International Champions Cup, after losing out to English Premier League champions Leicester City on penalties at Paradise last Saturday.
A makeshift side is expected to play with Wednesday’s crucial Champions League qualifying game in mind.
So without further ado, here’s our predicted XI for Saturday’s clash with Catalan giants Barcelona.
Craig Gordon
In goal once again will be Craig Gordon and will probably be replaced by Leo Fasan around the hour mark once again.
Saidy Janko
On the right side will most likely be Saidy Janko as Rodgers rests his key players for Wednesday night including Mikael Lustig, who didn’t travel to Dublin.
Efe Ambrose
In defence once again will be Efe Ambrose as Kolo Toure didn’t travel to Dublin for the game against Barcelona.
Eoghan O'Connell
After an impressive performance on Wednesday night showing composure in the heart of the Celtic defence, Eoghan O’Connell should be given another starting berth to get more experience.
James Forrest
On the right wing, James Forrest will start once against and is becoming one of the most important players in the squad.
Scott Brown
As ever, the captain Scott Brown will start in midfield for Celtic and will hope to disrupt the Barcelona attack in any way possible.
Nir Bitton
After controlling the midfield when he came on against Astana, Nir Bitton should start if he’s fit enough after suffering from a hip injury in previous games to regain some more match fitness.
Ryan Christie
Alongside the skipper and Bitton, Ryan Christie should be given a chance following the poor performances from Callum McGregor and Stuart Armstrong.
Emilio Izaguirre
On the left wing, Emilio Izaguirre should be given a chance in a position that allows him to go forward at will but when Celtic don’t have the ball he will drop deeper to make a back four to narrow the field and make it harder for Barcelona to penetrate.
Nadir Ciftci
Up front for Celtic Leigh Griffiths should be rested after the long-haul flight on Wednesday from Kazakhstan and in his place will likely be Nadir Ciftci.
Moussa Dembele
After a frustrating night in Kazakhstan, Moussa Dembele will look to showcase what he is capable of doing.