Celtic play CFR Cluj in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League.
Neil Lennon has a strong Celtic squad to choose from heading into Wednesday night’s match away to CFR Cluj in Romania.
Having comfortably disposed of FK Sarajevo and Nomme Kalju in previous rounds, the Hoops have the chance to take another step further towards the group stages of the big European competition.
The Scottish champions are in excellent attacking form, scoring 14 goals in their last three matches without conceding at the other end.
However, Cluj are a much tougher proposition. Dan Petrescu’s side are unbeaten in seven matches and have their own Champions League ambitions.
Given the Romanians are the home team tonight in front of an expectant and passionate crowd, a bit of pragmatism may be required from Lennon’s men.
Lucky for them then that the defensive options available to the Celtic boss are solid.
Hatem Abd Elhamed has been included in a European squad for the first time since signing and despite coming off with a knock against St Johnstone at the weekend is fit enough to feature, according to his manager (Football Scotland).
His presence on the right flank would free Kristoffer Ajer up to take his rightful place in central defence.
After being suspended for the Scottish Premiership opener, Christopher Jullien is a big return and there’ll be a clamour for him to partner the young Norwegian for the first time despite Jozo Simunovic and Nir Bitton also being available.
The Frenchman looks like a solid defensive unit, who offers a big attacking aerial threat for set-pieces. There’s no reason not to start him.
Boli Bolingoli should continue his bright start to the season at left-back.
In midfield it will likely be business as usual with Lennon having his big hitters to choose from.
Scott Brown can offer the defensive stability that helps support his centre-backs when the Hoops have possession, while Callum McGregor should get the nod to dictate play from deep.
Ryan Christie’s incredible form, six goals and three assists in five matches so far this season, makes him an undroppable presence further forward.
Mikey Johnston and James Forrest can provide serious threats from the wing. Johnston is the definite first choice on the left flank right now and got the scoring underway against St Johnstone on Saturday.
In attack, the combative and classy Odsonne Edouard is likely to get the nod over Leigh Griffiths, who can perform super sub duties if required.
This eleven is arguably one of Neil Lennon’s strongest to date since returning as Celtic boss.
It’s a team should have both the attacking weaponry and defensive guile to pick up a positive result for the return leg in Glasgow next week.
Your predicted lineup in full is:
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