Ahead of Celtic’s Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, 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 will be choosing the starting XI, as well as predicting how the team will 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 group stages of Europe’s elite competition gets underway, and it’s no easy challenge for Celtic straight off the bat as the French giants are the first to visit Celtic Park.
The French side thrashed bottom of the league Metz 5-1 last Friday night, going one than our 4-1 victory the same night over Hamilton.
Wasn’t at his best on Friday night. Has impressed at home in Europe so far this season. Faces the daunting task of having to prevent their attack from getting through.
Mikael Lustig
Hasn’t been up to scratch so far this season. Will be up against Neymar once again, not such a simple ask. Is still capable of picking out a pass and advancing an attack.
Jozo Simunovic
Coped well on Hamilton’s plastic pitch at the weekend. No question over his place in the team as he’s a real physical presence who is hard to deal with.
Nir Bitton
Ajer would be the preferred choice for some people but Rodgers will likely go with Bitton in defence alongside Simunovic.
Kieran Tierney
The youngster has proven that his hard-work and commitment can pay-off in a game. Won’t be fazed by the occasion and will instead embrace it.
Scott Brown
If he’s to regain the form he showed last season then this is the game to show it in. Will need to lead his side and give a commanding performance if he’s to advance play as a fast rate.
Olivier Ntcham
His physical presence and ability to break the lines and find his man will benefit the team massively, especially if they are to get off to a good start.
Patrick Roberts
The winger made his first appearance for the Hoops on Friday since rejoining on-loan and he never looked out of place. His agility and quick-thinking will hopefully lead to big things.
Tom Rogic
Is one of the best in the squad for carrying the ball forward and looking to create a chance. Can play extremely well in that role behind the striker, so hopefully Tuesday is one of those nights for the Aussie.
Scott Sinclair
Bagged a brace in Friday night’s 4-1 win. Seems to have regained his form after a shaky spell. His link-up play with several of his teammates can always lead to clear-cut chances being created. Can turn on the style or run at defences while looking for a pass.
Leigh Griffiths
Odsonne Edouard could be in contention to start but Griffiths seems the more favoured choice given his experience. Will take a big performance to unlock PSG’s defence.