Team news: Celtic v Dundee United (A)

Celtic and Ronny Deila will look for a repeat result of August’s meeting at Tannadice on Friday night.

Deila’s Bhoys came out 3-1 winners in that game, thanks to goal from Leigh Griffiths, Callum McGregor and an own goal from Mark Durnan.

After a rocky period for the Hoops players, another win will ease the discontent amongst fans about the current manager.

Mixu Paatelainen is under severe pressure to turn the Tangerines current form around, as they are currently 11 points behind second from bottom Kilmarnock.

A narrow 1-0 win over Airdrieonians in the Scottish Cup fourth round was their first since the end of October leaving lots of uncertainty about their future in the top flight.

Paatelainen is hoping to take out-of-favour Hoops striker Anthony Stokes on loan after both clubs agreed on a deal, but it is Stokes that will make the final decision on his next move.

Celtic

Dedryck Boyata has recovered from a hamstring and Stuart Armstrong has recovered from a back injury and are both available.

Craig Gordon and Nadir Ciftci return to the squad after missing the fourth round tie against Stranraer through suspension.

Nir Bitton will miss out through suspension after being sent off against Partick Thistle.

Scott Brown has returned to training but he isn’t expected to return to the field until mid-February.

Ryan Christie is edging closer towards full fitness after he suffered a knee injury against Motherwell while on loan to Inverness.

Saidy Janko remains out with an ankle injury and Charlie Mulgrew is also still recovering from a thigh injury.

Dundee United

Max Durnan and Guy Demel are suspended but they have no new injury concerns.

Paul Paton is fit and has returned to training after missing more than six months of action with a knee injury.