Celtic vs. Zenit: Lineups revealed, home advantage?

Valentine’s Day has finally approached. Those in a relationship will embrace the romance in the air with their lover, while single folks will either be eating excessively or chasing the love of their dreams.

Celtic won’t be participating in the day of romance, however. The Bhoys host Russian side Zenit in the first leg of the Europa League clash between the two today.

It’s probably the most crucial game on the Celtic schedule so far. A win here not only puts Zenit in a bad place, but it gives the Celts confidence heading back into domestic competitions.

It won’t be easy for the Hoops though. Significant injuries to Dedryck Boyata, Marvin Compper and Tom Rogic’s non-return has put Brendan Rodgers in a tough spot.

As a result, it’s looking like the likes of Charly Musonda and Jack Hendry will fill in their respective positions. Both players have very little to no European competition experience.

For Hendry, he’ll have some good support alongside him with Kieran Tierney, Mikael Lustig and Kristoffer Ajer. Still, Hendry in the heart of the defense is making Zenit very happy at the moment.

Even though Musonda hasn’t played in much of Europe, he has featured against some of the best in La Liga that include the greats of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Rodgers doesn’t necessarily have to put Musonda in, but it’s still a losing scenario. Publications have noted that Callum McGregor will start, and he hasn’t found the form that he had in the first-half of the season.

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Up top, the usual James Forrest and Scott Sinclair duo with will be centralized by Moussa Dembele will start. Forrest had a hat-trick against Partick Thistle recently, and Sinclair has always had a knack for net this season.

The combination are probably are best source for victory in this one. It will be a close-scoring contest, and that’s where Dorus de Vries comes in.

The keeper has been decent, but he has given some fans a couple of nail biters. Plus, a loss to Kilmarnock is simply unacceptable. A veteran in craft will have to be on his toes to make sure Zenit don’t leave Glasgow with more than two goals in their belt.

Celtic Park isn’t usually buzzing in European competition for some reason. Maybe it’s because no chance is given against PSG or Bayern Munich, but the supporters are critical here.

Former and current players alike have noted what an atmosphere Paradise is, and it needs to be that way for a chance of victory today.

A draw is the best result from this one. Victory would be incredible, but injuries have hindered that goal right now. Plus, Zenit are arguably Champions League quality and look favorites in this tournament.

Hope for the best. The fixture will definitely draw in the views, and let’s hope they all see a Celtic win in this one.

Next: 25-year-old doubtful against Zenit

Hopefully the PES video above doesn’t happen in real life!