Celtic vs Hearts: Key Battles

Celtic host Heart of Midlothian on Sunday afternoon, as they return to league action following games in the Betfred Cup and Europa League.

Both teams come into the game following wins last weekend in the cup, with Celtic scraping by Dunfermline and Hearts putting aside Motherwell.

The Edinburgh side were very impressive against Motherwell in treacherous conditions as they came 2-1 winners, with goals from Micheal Smith and Conor Washington.

Once again, the Hoops have a quick turnaround, with Sunday’s game their third in eight days.

Thursday’s match was pleasing on the eye for supporters, with Neil Lennon’s men completely controlling the game.

Solid performances from James Forrest, Odsonne Edouard, Mikey Johnston and particularly Kris Ajer, sent the Hoops faithful home happy.

However Neil Lennon has no time to have an eye on next Thursday’s return leg against AIK, as Hearts have proved one of Celtic’s toughest opponents in recent years.

It is forever a feisty and passionate encounter and Sunday sets to be no different.

Hearts are without some key players, with Steven Naismith and Jamie Walker both missing the the trip to Glasgow.

The aforementioned are usually at the heart of any controversy or battle against Celtic, so it will be interesting to see who will step up and fill their boots.