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Celtic vs Ferencvaros predicted starting XI as 3 changes made

A look at the most likely Celtic starting Xi for their Europa League clash with Ferencvaros
ByJamie Kemble
Sinisalo must start
Sinisalo must start | Craig Foy - SNS Group/GettyImages

Celtic are back in action on Thursday night, when they face Ferencvaros in the Europa League. The Bhoys kick off their league phase with a home clash, and it's a much-needed home clash after the weekend's drubbing at Rangers.

The Hoops have struggling in tough away atmospheres, and that points to the need for Martin O'Neill's men to take full advantage of their home clashes in this league phase. Picking up wins at home will be the difference between Celtic progressing or not in this campaign.

Ahead of the Europa League opener, we have put together the predicted Celtic starting lineup.

GK - Viljami Sinisalo

O'Neill needs to put his weight behind Sinisalo. He made a mistake by starting Sam Johnstone in the derby, and he needs to put it right.

LB - Kieran Tierney

Tierney will surely start on the left, even with the demand of playing twice in a week. Celtic need to start this campaign well, and they will need to ask Tierney to pick up the load.

CB - Auston Trusty

Trusty should come back in here. He was done a fine job this season and needs to start these big games.

CB - Cameron Carter-Vickers

There could be a question mark here. Carter-Vickers looked as though he was struggling a little over the weekend having shaken off an injury recently. This could be a big ask if he is still feeling the effects of that setback, but if he is fully fit, the American international starts.

RB - Colby Donovan

The only player who really showed some fight over the weekend, Donovan should be rewarded with a start.

CDM - Callum McGregor

Celtic don't have many options in the holding midfield role, so McGregor, even at his age, will likely have to keep soldiering on with little rest.

CDM - Mika Baur

Again, Celtic don't have many options due to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain remaining suspensed. Baur needs to get back to his best after a disappointing Old Firm.

CAM - Benjamin Nygren

Nygren is the obvious starter in the attacking midfield role.

LW - Camilo Duran

Tounekti is not likely to start, so then it becomes about what O'Neill does on the left. Duran could well play out there for this one.

RW - Haissem Hassan

Back to full fitness, Hassan, who was the only threat in the Old Firm, should be getting the start.

CF - Kasper Hogh

Hogh should probably be dropped after a disappointing run of form, and if this was a suggested XI, either Duran plays here or Shim Mheuka gets a chance, but it's a predicted XI, and O'Neill hasn't liked to drop big-name players.

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