Key Battles: Celtic vs Rennes (H)

Matchday five in the Europa League is upon us as Celtic host Stade Rennais on Thursday night at Parkhead.

The hosts have already secured European football after Christmas, with two wins over Lazio, a dismantling of Cluj and a point on the road in France, enough to consolidate their place in the last 32 draw.

But the top spot is still up for grabs, as is a 100% win rate at home in the competition.

The visitors have had a very disappointing European venture this year as they sit bottom of the group, winless and unable to qualify. Their only point actually came against the Hoops on matchday one.

They’ll still come to Glasgow looking for a win, for pride more than anything, but their main focus will be to get their league campaign back on track following, yet again, a disappointing start.

Despite going ahead at the weekend thanks to a Raphinha goal, Julien Stephan’s side succumbed to a 2-1 defeat to fellow strugglers Dijon.

Its expected that the visitors will rest several players ahead of their crucial game against Saint Etienne at the weekend, but there will still be a wealth of talent on the pitch and the Bhoys will need to be at the top of their game to overcome the battles that will undoubtedly take place.