Celtic bring FC Utrecht to Glasgow on Thursday night for a decisive final outing in their Europa League group-phase campaign.
The Scottish champions know they cannot seal automatic passage to the last 16 even with a victory, but three points would lock in a place in the knockout play-off round and extend their European adventure.
Martin O’Neill’s second spell in the Parkhead dugout has steadied the ship and injected renewed confidence into the squad. Under the veteran coach, Celtic have put together an impressive run of three wins and two draws from their last five matches in all competitions, including a 2-2 share of the spoils away to Hearts at Tynecastle last weekend.
That upturn arrives at a crucial moment, with the Bhoys sitting 24th in the Europa League standings on eight points from seven fixtures heading into this final league-phase clash.
Celtic team news
Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand, Cameron Carter‑Vickers, Jota and Kelechi Iheanacho are all sidelined through injury, while Reo Hatate remains suspended following his dismissal against Bologna.
There was at least one boost on the training ground as Marcelo Saracchi returned to full sessions on Wednesday, offering a welcome defensive option if deemed fit enough to feature.
There was also encouragement regarding Kieran Tierney after the full-back was forced off early in the draw at Tynecastle. The Scotland international was spotted back in training at Lennoxtown on Wednesday, raising hopes that he will be passed fit to play some part against Utrecht in front of the home support.
Recent recruit Tomas Cvancara remains unavailable for this match despite his arrival from Borussia Monchengladbach due to UEFA rules.
Celtic predicted lineup
Possible Celtic starting XI: Schmeichel; Donovan, Trusty, Murray, Scales; Engels, McGregor, Nygren; Hyun-Jun, Maeda, Tounekti.
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Thursday, 29th January.
How to watch Celtic vs FC Utrecht?
Supporters in the UK can watch broadcast live on TNT Sports 4.
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