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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Robbie Copeland

Celtic squad revealed with Kyogo or Giakoumakis debate central as Ange faces right back dilemma

Ange Postecoglou has promised to ring in the changes for Celtic's clash with St Johnstone after being left bemused by one or two recent performances from his stars. But will that mean Giorgos Giakoumakis gets the chance to lead the line amid fan clamour for the big Greek to be restored?

The Parkhead boss made just the one change for the win over Livingston during the week but he was left frustrated at their failure to make their dominance pay in the 2-1 win. Kyogo was on target after an own goal from Ayo Obileye but Giakoumakis and Sead Haksabanovic could be given chances to mix things up as they look to restore their nine-point lead.

There is also a decision to be made over Anthony Ralston after he limped off against Livi and if he doesn't make it then Greg Taylor could start at right-back with Alexandro Bernabei coming in for a rare start as that was the change he made against the Lions.

When asked if fans could expect changes, Postecoglou said: "Yeah, I think that's fair, based on how busy (it is) but also on performance. If guys aren't performing to the levels we know they can there are some pretty good players that are not getting some game time. They are training hard and that's why we have got a squad.

"You have to reward that at some point. That coupled with the fact we do have a busy schedule we will make some changes for the St Johnstone game because it will be a tough game for us."

Predicted Celtic XI

The extent to which he'll mix it up remains a secret but dropping Liel Abada would be harsh as he was their best attacking player against Livingston. Jota less so and he could make way for Haksabanovic who has had to be patient so far despite often impressing when he has featured.

The great striker debate will also be central to fans' attentions as Giakoumakis has been shut out since the restart with Record Sport understanding contract talks have broken down. Postecoglou has preferred Kyogo but will this be the game he restores the Greek for a crack at the whip?

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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