Celtic return to action this weekend, preparing for Saturday night’s Scottish Premiership match against St Mirren.
Martin O’Neill’s side has had a successful run since his return as temporary manager, winning three of their four games. Another win would reduce the deficit to four points between the Hoops and Hearts. The travelling support is expected to be tense after the club elected to call the AGM off early with more than an hour remaining.
Anthony Ralston will appear as Colby Donovan is given healing time.
The majority of Celtic’s Scottish players had a successful international season, but Colby Donovan was not as fortunate.
The kid was forced to withdraw from the Scotland U21 squad due to an injury sustained in the triumph over Gibraltar U21s.
Even if Donovan gets cleared for the weekend, involving him with such a crucial Europa League match against Feyenoord just a few days away is dangerous. O’Neill’s selection decisions will be strongly influenced by injuries and players returning from national service.
Anthony Ralston is set to start at right-back, and despite being unused in Scotland’s triumph against Denmark, he comes into the game fully rested. Callum McGregor, who missed the international break, is also set to return to midfield, where he will likely be joined by Reo Hatate and Arne Engels.
Sebastian Tounekti is lined up on the left, Johnny Kenny will lead the attack, and Daizen Maeda appears to be ready to start on the right.
Celtic expected XI against St Mirren.
Given the injuries and uneven condition of returning internationals, multiple lineup changes are inevitable.
Kasper Schmeichel should keep his place between the posts, with a back four of Ralston, Auston Trusty, Liam Scales, and Kieran Tierney.
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