Celtic are four points clear at the top of the Premiership table but their recent form has not been the most convincing. Of course, with the number of key players out injured, that is to be expected to a certain extent, and as they slowly return to fitness, hopefully Ange Postecoglou’s side will rediscover their old mojo and swagger as well.
The away trip to Livingston might not be the easiest game though. David Martindale’s side must be high on confidence after drawing 1-1 at Ibrox against the Rangers.
Also, the home advantage could end up playing a huge part. They have won four of their last five league games at the Almondvale Stadium, even though they might sit at 6th in the Premiership table. And it is a ground that Celtic have historically faced some problems in over the years.
Thus, it would be a mistake to think Celtic will have an easy time this weekend. And as reported by Football Scotland, Chris Sutton said while speaking on BT Sport’s Scottish Football Extra:
"“I can’t stand the pitch at Livingston. If you’re Celtic, they do play watchable football. Knock the ball around nicely, go forward, get bodies forward and get runners in the box.“But this is one where they’ve just got to win the game and move on. I think it’s a really difficult game.“David Martindale’s done a brilliant job at Livingston. They’re super effective at what they do.“If Celtic can come away with three points that would be absolutely enormous.“These games always worry me. I’m not really that fussed about Rangers, but when you go to Kilmarnock or Livi I think they’re really difficult fixtures.”"
Sutton makes worrying admission about Celtic’s away game vs Livingston
It is safe to say that Celtic will need to be at the top of their game against Livingston and cannot afford to slip up, and give the Rangers another lifeline in the title race.
They already did that once earlier on in the campaign when they lost 2-0 against St Mirren. They cannot make the same mistakes against Livingston.
The biggest problem with the away trip to Livingston is that the pitch does not really suit the style of football that Celtic play under the management of Postecoglou.
Thus, three points will be much more important on this occasion than the scoreline and hopefully Celtic will come away from Livingston with a win. Anything less would be a blow.