Celtic take on Dundee in the fifth round of the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup, with Martin O’Neill’s side aiming to book their place in the next stage by overcoming the Dens Park outfit. Several new additions have bolstered the squad, and the Hoops will be hoping that extra depth helps them continue their push in the competition.
The Scottish champions had a free midweek after their scheduled match against Aberdeen was called off due to poor pitch conditions. That unexpected break allowed the squad extra time on the training ground alongside Shaun Maloney and the coaching staff as they look to build strong momentum heading into this cup tie.
Team news
O’Neill strengthened his squad during the January window, with Julian Araujo, Tomas Cvancara and Junior Amada all in contention to feature.
Kasper Schmeichel is expected to return between the posts, despite Viljami Sinisalo playing in the previous cup outing.
At the back, Auston Trusty and Liam Scales are likely to partner in central defence, flanked by Kieran Tierney and Araujo in the full-back roles. In midfield, Callum McGregor should anchor the side, with Arne Engels — who attracted late transfer interest — and Benji Nygren operating ahead of him.
Celtic now have plenty of attacking choices, and O’Neill may use the match to spread minutes across his forward options. Daizen Maeda could start on the left, with Cvancara leading the line and Junior Amada on the opposite flank.
Predicted XI: Schmeichel; Tierney, Scales, Trusty, Araujo; McGregor, Engels, Nygren; Maeda, Cvancara, Junior.
Referee details
Ryan Lee will take charge of the fixture, assisted by David McGeachie and Douglas Ross. VAR duties fall to David Dickinson, with Andrew Dallas assisting.
Kick-off time
The match begins at 5:30pm.
Where to watch
Premier Sports will broadcast the game live, with coverage from Celtic Park starting at 5:00pm.
There is an additional layer to the occasion as the Celtic Collective have encouraged supporters to boycott the match in protest, seeking changes at executive level. That pressure appears to have prompted dialogue from the club, with Brian Wilson confirming outreach to various supporter groups. Ultimately, all sides want unity and success on the pitch, and the hope will be for a positive resolution soon.
Leave a Reply