Predicted Celtic XI to face to Hibernian in the Scottish League Cup

Celtic romped home to a comfortable 2-0 victory over St. Mirren at home in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday night, thanks to second-half goals from James Forrest and Mohamed Elyounoussi. 

The Hoops currently sit on top of the league standings, just ahead of arch-rivals Rangers on goal difference. Neil Lennon’s side will be the outright favourites when they lock horns against Hibernian in the semi-final of the Scottish League Cup at Hampden Park on Saturday. 

Hibernian staged a remarkable comeback from two goals down to secure a point against Livingston in their previous outing but they will be the underdogs in this semi-final clash against the Hoops at the weekend.

Team News

Celtic do not have any major injury concerns heading into the League Cup tie against Hibernian. Scott Bain (hand) and Jozo Simunovic (knee) are ruled out while Mikey Johnston (groin) and Vakoun Issouf Bayo (knock) are doubtful to play a part at the weekend. 

Predicted XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Craig Gordon (GK)

The veteran has largely played second-fiddle to Fraser Forster between the sticks but he is likely to start in the League Cup tie on Saturday.

Jeremie Frimpong (RB)

The 18-year-old has shown strong signs of promise since his arrival from Man City back in the summer and he is expected to get the nod ahead of Moritz Bauer, who had a poor game against St. Mirren. 

Christopher Jullien (CB)

The Frenchman has been an absolute rock at the back for the Hoops this term and he is probably one of the first names on Lennon’s teamsheet. 

Kristoffer Ajer (CB)

The Norwegian starlet had little to do against St. Mirren but he has been a key presence at the heart of the defence for the reigning champions and should start on Saturday. 

Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo (LB)

Greg Taylor made his Celtic debut last game but the Belgian has been the first-choice for Lennon and is likely to return to the playing eleven against Hibernian. 

Olivier Ntcham (CM)

The Frenchman has only played a bit-part role but Saturday’s semi-final clash could be a big opportunity for him to prove his worth in place of Scott Brown, who probably needs a bit of rest. 

Callum McGregor (CM)

The Scottish international has been an ever-present for the Hoops in central midfield and is one of their most influential players.

James Forrest (RM)

The influential winger marked his new four-year deal at Parkhead with a well-deserved goal against St. Mirren and Celtic will once again look up to him to deliver the goods on Saturday. 

Lewis Morgan (LM)

The 23-year-old hasn’t been a regular fixture in the playing eleven but he has been given the nod in the League Cup ties and one would expect him to start at the weekend in place of Mohamed Elyounoussi. 

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Tom Rogic (CAM)

The Australian international has lost his No.10 role to Ryan Christie but he should be fresh and ready to start against Hibernian after warming the bench on Wednesday. 

Odsonne Edouard (ST)

Celtic’s talismanic No.9 was unlucky not to have grabbed a goal against St. Mirren but he has been a prolific presence for the Hoops up top.