Celtic are set to face Aberdeen tomorrow at Pittodrie, with this being the first game since the transfer window slammed shut. The Hoops made three new signings on deadline day, but whether they'll make the starting lineup on an all-important matchday is yet to be seen.
The Dons have struggled so far this season, with three losses in their last five games. They find themselves sitting seventh in the table, five points off breaking into the top half of the Premiership.
Predicted Celtic lineup for Aberdeen away
Kasper Schmeichel will be the obvious option between the sticks for Martin O'Neill. He has favoured the goalkeeper during both stints at the club, despite some supporters believing that Vilijami Sinisalo.
In the centre-back positions, it's safe to assume that Liam Scales will be starting. Austin Trusty is now returning from the red card that he picked up against Hearts, and will most certainly be trusted to immediately come back in.
Julian Aurajo has been impressing recently, and he will likely be partnered with Kieran Tierney in the fullback positions.
In midfield, the brilliant club captain Callum McGregor will be in the centre of midfield in his usual role. Arne Engels, who was the subject of a £25 million bid on deadline day that was rejected, will be slotting in next to McGregor, with the in-form Benjamin Nygren undoubtedly playing as well. Nygren's 15 goals so far this season are too solid a number to drop him at this point in the season.
As for the attacking three, Daizen Maeda will most certainly be chosen by O'Neill on the left. There's a chance that new signing Joel Mvaku, who can play on both sides, will be picked from the off. It's realistic to assume that Yang Hyun-Jun could still have his place though.
Up front, Tomas Cvancara will occupy the striker position after his goal against Falkirk. Fans are enjoying the impact that the Czech striker has had in his two appearances, and it would be crazy to drop him, even in favour of new signing Junior Adamu.
With that being said, Junior Adamu and Benjamin Arthur will likely be on the bench. O'Neill clearly sees something in Arthur, and he could even bring on the player for his debut should Celtic lead by the end of the game. If you're doubtful of Arthur making an appearance, then certainly expect to see Adamu make his debut.
Celtic have a few injuries, as Alistair Johnston remains out with a hamstring injury. Cameron Carter-Vickers is out for the season, with Callum Osmand, Jota and Marcelo Saracchi still out of the picture as well.
Also, a reminder that Johnny Kenny and Stephen Welsh have now departed the club on loan. Welsh has returned to Motherwell, while Bolton has secured Kenny's services for the season.
How could the match go?
With three new signings bolstering the squad, it's set to be an exciting day for Celtic. O'Neill said pre-match that he wants all players to travel, even if they don't play, so everyone is set to get a taste of the Hoops experience.
Celtic are in good form, having not lost a match in their last five games. Three wins and two draws have defined them over the weeks, and it is expected that they will pick up another win against Aberdeen on the road.
Prediction for this one is 3-0. Goals from Tomas Cvancara, Benjamin Nygren, and a debut goal from one of our new signings.
