Ahead of Celtic’s trip to face Aberdeen, 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.
The Hoops are on the road again after their 4-0 win in Dingwall against Ross County in midweek, and will be looking to continue their unbeaten start to the season at Pittodrie.
Having already beaten Derek McInnes’ side 4-1 at Paradise in August, Rodgers will be looking for another win ahead of Tuesday’s all-important Champions League clash with Borussia Monchengladbach.
To understand our prediction you need to also need to see the latest team news ahead of the game. Here’s our predicted team in a 4-2-3-1 formation for Saturday afternoon’s game.
Craig Gordon
In goal, Craig Gordon made two brilliant saves in the game but his poor decision making and reckless challenges when rushing to meet the ball outside the box remains a concern.
Mikael Lustig
At right-back, Mikael Lustig will return to his more natural position after his sixth game at centre-back of the season on Wednesday.
Kolo Toure
Returning to the side after two games out will likely be Kolo Toure ahead of a crucial Champions League tie the experienced centre half should be given a chance to atone for his two errors against Monchengladbach after an impressive start to life at Celtic.
Jozo Simunovic
In every game Kolo Toure has played this season his defensive partner has been Erik Sviatchenko however I think Jozo Simunovic should start alongside Toure after a strong performance last weekend.
After a strong performance last weekend, Jozo Simunovic should start alongside the Dane in the heart of the Celtic defence.
Emilio Izaguirre
An injury to Kieran Tierney in training yesterday which is a suspected broken ankle means Emilio Izaguirre will remain in the team.
Scott Brown
Following the birth of his third child on Wednesday, Scott Brown will return to action for Celtic and will look to command the midfield like he did last Sunday.
Stuart Armstrong
One of the most improved players in recent weeks has been Stuart Armstrong after putting in a terrific performance on Wednesday and should start once again.
Patrick Roberts
Although he’s not started a game for over a month, Patrick Roberts was raring to go and opened the scoring on Wednesday and also provided two assists and should keep his place in the team.
Tom Rogic
A midweek rest for Tom Rogic should allow him to recuperate ahead of two crucial games for Celtic in which he will hope to play a big role in.
Scott Sinclair
With his 9th goal in all competitions on Wednesday, Scott Sinclair will take back his starting role in the Celtic side.
Moussa Dembele
After coming off the bench and scoring his 15th goal of the season, it’s hard to see anyone else but Moussa Dembele starting up front.