Celtic’s next game against AZ Alkmaar will be one of the most important of their season. Ange Postecoglou’s side will be going into the second leg of their UEFA Europa League play-off round tie as the favourites, having won the first leg 2-0.
But considering how open that first leg was and with AZ Alkmaar enjoying the home advantage this time around, this tie is far from over and the Hoops will have to step up their game if they want to make it to the group stage of the Europa League.
Considering their recent form, the players should be going into the game with a lot of confidence. But it looks like they will be without two first-team players on the night.
As reported by The Scottish Sun, James Forrest has not flown out with the rest of the squad to Netherlands and he is joined by James McCarthy, with the midfielder staying in Glasgow as well.
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Celtic set to miss duo in second leg vs AZ Alkmaar
It is safe to say that Forrest could be a big miss for the Hoops against AZ Alkmaar. Not only has he been in great form recently but his experience of playing in big games could have come in handy in such a situation as well.
On the other hand, McCarthy is yet to find his feet at the club ever since moving to Parkhead earlier in the summer. The midfielder has had his fair share of injury worries in recent times and one would be hoping that he can remain fit this season.
Even then, Postecoglou’s side should be confident of their chances going into the game. Not only do they have a 2-0 lead from the first leg but have also been in brilliant form lately, winning six games on the trot and outscoring their opponents 24 to 4 over the course of those six wins.