Celtic VS Hearts: Predicted Line-Ups for Both Teams and Team News as Brendan Rodgers Makes Key Starting XI Changes, giving INJURY Update on star player.

As the international break comes to a close, Celtic returns to domestic action this weekend with a match against Hearts at Celtic Park. This fixture will see two sides with vastly different fortunes so far this season: Celtic remains unbeaten and has yet to concede a goal, while Hearts have endured a challenging start, having lost three of their first four games in the new league campaign.

A Strong Start for Celtic

Celtic enters this match in excellent form. Brendan Rodgers’ side has been dominant, not only in terms of points but also defensively, having kept clean sheets in all their matches. The Hoops are looking to extend their flawless record as they welcome a Hearts side that has struggled to find its footing this season.

Celtic fans have received encouraging news ahead of the game, with key players returning from injury. Canadian international Alistair Johnston, who left the pitch with a knock during his country’s recent international match, is expected to be fit. Canada manager Jesse Marsch confirmed that Johnston’s injury was not serious and that he should be ready for the weekend. Additionally, central defender Cameron Carter-Vickers, who was seen wearing a moon boot following Celtic’s 3-0 win over Rangers, is also expected to be available for selection. His return will further strengthen a defense that has been impenetrable so far.

Rodgers has shown flexibility in his team selections this season and could make some bold changes for this match, as he continues to rotate players to maintain freshness and tactical versatility. Celtic’s squad depth allows Rodgers to make adjustments without significantly weakening the team, and this game may see some fresh faces in the starting XI.

Hearts’ Struggles and Injury Concerns

On the other side, Hearts have had a difficult start to their campaign. Steven Naismith’s side has managed just one point from their opening four games and is still searching for their first win of the season. The pressure is mounting, and a trip to face an in-form Celtic side at Celtic Park is a daunting prospect for the Edinburgh-based team.

Hearts’ injury woes have not helped their cause. Calem Nieuwenhof is set to miss the game, adding to the team’s challenges. Kenneth Vargas is also a doubt due to a minor foot injury, which leaves Naismith with limited options in key areas of the pitch. However, there is some positive news for Hearts, as midfielder Beni Baningime is expected to make his first start of the season after recovering from a calf injury. His return could provide much-needed stability in the midfield.

Predicted Line-Ups

With both sides dealing with injuries and tactical considerations, here’s a look at the predicted starting line-ups for Celtic and Hearts:

Celtic:

• GK: Kasper Schmeichel – The experienced Danish goalkeeper has yet to concede a goal in the league and will continue between the posts unless there are any last-minute issues.
• RB: Alistair Johnston – Despite a minor injury scare during international duty, Johnston is expected to be fit enough to start on the right side of defense.
• CB: Cameron Carter-Vickers – Returning from injury, Carter-Vickers will likely slot back into the heart of the defense to maintain Celtic’s defensive solidity.
• CB: Gustaf Lagerbielke – The Swedish center-back has formed a solid partnership with Carter-Vickers and is expected to retain his place in the starting XI.
• LB: Greg Taylor – A consistent performer at left-back, Taylor’s defensive capabilities and forward runs make him an essential part of Rodgers’ side.
• CM: Callum McGregor (captain) – The Celtic captain will lead the team from midfield, offering both defensive coverage and playmaking abilities.
• CM: Reo Hatate – One of Celtic’s most talented midfielders, Hatate will provide energy and creativity in the middle of the park.
• RW: Daizen Maeda – Known for his pace and work rate, Maeda is expected to start on the right wing, offering a threat down the flanks.
• LW: Luis Palma – A potential change in the line-up, Palma may get a start on the left side, adding a different dimension to Celtic’s attack.
• ST: Kyogo Furuhashi – Celtic’s top scorer is almost certain to lead the line, with his movement and clinical finishing making him a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Hearts:

• GK: Craig Gordon – The veteran goalkeeper and former Celtic player is expected to start in goal for Hearts as he returns to his old stomping ground.
• RB: Nathaniel Atkinson – With injuries to key players, Atkinson will likely fill in at right-back and face a challenging afternoon against Celtic’s attacking players.
• CB: Frankie Kent – The English defender will marshal the defense and attempt to keep Celtic’s dangerous forwards at bay.
• CB: Kye Rowles – Partnering Kent in central defense, Rowles will need to be at his best to withstand the pressure from Celtic’s attack.
• LB: Stephen Kingsley – The experienced left-back will be tasked with defending against Celtic’s quick wingers while also offering some attacking support.
• CM: Beni Baningime – Returning from injury, Baningime will add defensive stability and control to the Hearts midfield, which will be crucial against Celtic’s dominant midfielders.
• CM: Peter Haring – A reliable presence in the middle, Haring’s experience and physicality will be essential for Hearts to compete in midfield.
• AM: Jorge Grant – In a more advanced midfield role, Grant will aim to provide creativity and link up with the forwards.
• RW: Yutaro Oda – The Japanese winger will look to exploit any space left by Celtic’s full-backs and provide an attacking outlet for Hearts.
• LW: Alex Lowry – On the left wing, Lowry will need to contribute both offensively and defensively as Hearts look to get something from the game.
• ST: Lawrence Shankland – The Scottish striker is Hearts’ main goal-scoring threat, and the team will rely on his finishing abilities to break through Celtic’s strong defense.

Key Battles and Tactical Approaches

This match will be an intriguing tactical battle between two sides with very different approaches. Celtic will dominate possession, as they have in most of their matches this season, and will look to control the game through their midfield, with McGregor and Hatate pulling the strings. Their high pressing and quick transitions will aim to overwhelm Hearts, who are likely to sit deeper and defend in numbers.

For Hearts, the key will be resilience and organization. They will need to absorb pressure and try to catch Celtic on the counter-attack, with Shankland and the wide players providing the main attacking outlets. Set-pieces could also offer Hearts a route to goal, as they will need to capitalize on any chances that come their way.

Conclusion

Celtic will go into the match as heavy favorites, with their unbeaten start and solid defense giving them the edge over a Hearts side that has struggled for form and consistency. However, football is often unpredictable, and Hearts will be hoping to spring a surprise by frustrating Celtic and taking advantage of any opportunities that come their way.

For Brendan Rodgers and his team, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum and extending their perfect start to the season. With key players returning from injury and a squad full of confidence, Celtic will aim to continue their dominance at the top of the league.