Celtic

Celtic best XI v Red Bull Salzburg

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OPINION

Celtic welcome Red Bull Salzburg to Glasgow in the Europa League on Thursday in a bid to extend their run in the competition beyond the end of this year.

This visit comes on the back of a 5-1 thumping of Kilmarnock on Saturday, so Brendan Rodgers will no doubt be feeling confident that his side can achieve the result that they need in this encounter.

Even though Salzburg will prove to be tougher opponents on Thursday than Kilmarnock were, Brendan Rodgers’ side will still have enough quality to overcome them if he makes the right selection.

In goal, Craig Gordon should retain his place from the weekend.

The back-line must keep their spots in the starting XI apart from 5ft 10in [Transfermarkt] defender Emilio Izaguirre, who despite having a decent run-out at the weekend, does not have as much quality as Kieran Tierney.

With Dedryck Boyata currently a doubt for this clash [BBC Sport], Jozo Simunovic must continue to fill in for him at centre-back, just like he did on Saturday.

In the midfield, fan favourite Scott Brown and Olivier Ntcham must link-up in front of the defence – despite John Hartson saying they must be benched – in order to break up play, making it difficult for Salzburg to get forward and threaten the back four.

Ryan Christie, James Forrest and Callum McGregor should be automatic starters and make up the three-man unit in the attacking midfield areas, while Odsonne Edouard is should be the number one choice to start up front based on his recent form.

The Hoops have had a decent run in the Europa League so far and it will no doubt be a stern test for the team, but Rodgers has enough quality in his team to stun the visitors.

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