Predicted XI: Celtic v FK Sarajevo (A)

Celtic will look to book their place in the Europa League group stages for the third consecutive year, but standing in their way is a one-legged playoff tie against FK Sarajevo in Bosnia.

Neil Lennon’s men are no strangers to the Balkans, having faced off against Thursday’s opponents fifteen months ago in the UCL first-qualifying round; goals from Mikey Johnston, Odsonne Edouard and Scott Sinclair sealing a crucial 3-1 win to take back to Glasgow. The return-leg saw the Hoops stroll to a 5-2 win over both legs.

Though while we have that result in mind, it’s important to realise that this time around, things are different. There is no margin for error given the nature of the single-leg ties, meaning our players must be on the top of their game to ensure we progress.

Our 3-0 win over Hibs at the weekend was deserved, as we played some of our most complete football so far this season. It’s time to maintain that level of quality going into Thursday’s game.

Albian Ajeti hobbled off right after scoring on Sunday, a hamstring injury will see him miss this one. James Forrest is also set to be sidelined for a few of weeks with an ankle injury; Christopher Jullien is fit and back in the squad.

Here’s how Lennon could line his side up from the start.