Celtic are a team in form at the moment and were handed a massive confidence boost this weekend as Ange Postecoglou’s side booked their place in the Scottish League Cup final set to be played next month. But with games coming thick and fast there is little time to celebrate and reflect. The Hoops have another huge game next, when they face Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League.
A lot will depend on the game. If Celtic lose to Bayer Leverkusen and Real Betis beat Ferencvaros then the Hoops will be out of contention to make the knockout phase of the competition.
Of course, an away trip to Germany to face one of the best sides in the Bundesliga is always going to be tough. The reverse fixture at Parkhead ended up 4-0 in favour of Bayer Leverkusen. That just shows how much of a mountain Postecoglou’s side will have to climb just to get a result.
There is some positive news though. As reported by the Daily Record, Carl Starfelt has returned to training and is in the running to be involved along with Tom Rogic.
Celtic handed double boost before Bayer Leverkusen game
It is safe to say that Celtic have missed both Starfelt and Rogic in recent weeks. Both of them have been regulars in the starting XI this season and are integral to Postecoglou’s plans.
And while the club have managed to produce positive results even in their absence, the performances have not looked as good, either going forward or at the back.
Thus, they will be hoping to have both Starfelt and Rogic back in the mix as soon as possible from their respective injuries, which have kept them out for weeks. Thankfully, their returns to the pitch do not seem to be far away now. Let’s see if it will be against Bayer Leverkusen.