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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Graeme Young

Celtic squad revealed as Abada and Haksabanovic call looms and Giakoumakis aims to settle old scores

A pair of key Celtic traits under Ange Postecoglou were there for all to see in their 1-0 win over Aberdeen.

Firstly, utter domination in terms of chances created, possession-based control and leaving the opposition puffing. And Callum McGregor's 87th-minute was the latest example of a team who carry out their manager's mantra to 'never stop' in the search of victory.

But how will the Premiership champions go about their business against Livingston as they aim to restore their nine-point advantage over Rangers? Postecoglou has never been shy in freshening up his starting XI and there appear a couple of key areas which could be in line for a switch-up. Let's take the right-sided forward. Daizen Maeda started at Pittodrie but it was the introduction of Liel Abada at half-time which inspired Celtic to further domination before the winner. His brilliant through ball for Kyogo's miscue was one of many highlights from the 21-year-old. But Sead Haksabanovic returned to training and the November SPFL player of the month will be fancying his chances of earning a starting berth.

Celtic's Giorgos Giakoumakis during a Cinch Premiership match between Celtic and Livingston (SNS Group)

And who leads the line? Maybe the decision to plump with Giorgos Giakoumakis would be made easier if Kyogo had netted on Saturday. The Japan forward is all action and there's a case to keep with him but Giakoumakis has his own personal mission against the Lions. The 27-year-old has missed penalties in consecutive season against David Martindale's men and appears primed to add a physical element against a side who are likely to sit deep and allow the hosts to come onto them. Plenty to ponder before kick-off.

Predicted Celtic XI

Postecoglou is awash with options – the benefits of an almost fully healthy squad – and the temptation to make multiple changes will likely be strong. But the main men with the jerseys will be hard to shift but up top appears the most likely areas for change.

Celtic provisional squad

Goalkeepers

  • Joe Hart
  • Scott Bain
  • Benjamin Siegrist

Defenders

  • Greg Taylor
  • Moritz Jenz
  • Cameron Carter-Vickers
  • Alexandro Bernabei
  • Anthony Ralston
  • Carl Starfelt

Midfielders

  • Reo Hatate
  • Aaron Mooy
  • Matt O’Riley
  • Callum McGregor
  • Oliver Abildgaard
  • David Turnbull

Forwards

  • Liel Abada
  • James Forrest
  • Kyogo Furuhashi
  • Sead Haksabanovic

  • Jota
  • Daizen Maeda
  • Giorgos Giakoumakis
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