Match Preview: Celtic v Stade Rennes (H)

The Hoops are back in European action this Thursday as they face a struggling Stade Rennes side under the floodlights of Celtic Park.

We’re three weeks on from that iconic game at the Stadio Olimpico. 9,000 of the Hoops faithful watched on as Neil Lennon and co conquered the Italian capital by a scoreline of 2-1. Olivier Ntcham’s composed chip over Lazio ‘keeper Strakosha in the dying minutes of the game was followed by several minutes of limbs in the away end that can only be described as purely chaotic.

That win was enough to see the champions through to the Last-32 with two games to spare. It means a lot of pressure is off their shoulders. However, there is still the battle for first and second place in Group E to be contested.

This game is coming at the perfect time for the Hoops. They’ve won eight games on the bounce while keeping four clean sheets and find themselves sitting at the top of the Premiership table.

Rennes continue to struggle in Ligue 1, where they currently sit 12th on 18 points. They suffered a 2-1 loss to fellow strugglers Dijon at the weekend despite going ahead.

Jonny Hayes dislocated his shoulder in Saturday’s win over Livingston, ruling him out of Thursday’s clash. Leigh Griffiths returned to action following a lengthy period out, meaning we now have another fit recognised striker who will offer back-up to Odsonne Edouard; Bayo remains out as does Hatem Abd Elhamed.

Mohamed Elyounoussi didn’t feature at the weekend and is likely miss this one too, but he and Hayes could return to training later this week.

Mikey Johnston is also back in training.

READ CELTIC’S VERDICT

The Celts remain undefeated in the group, while Rennes are yet to win any of their games and sit bottom with just one point; that point coming in their group opener versus the Hoops.

Lennon’s men have gained momentum and look like a strong outfit ahead of matchday five. Home advantage and the hunger to overcome their French opponents in what is Celtic’s final home game in the group will be enough to see them prevail and remain in poll position to top Group E.

Score prediction: Celtic 2-0 Stade Rennais