Celtic’s predicted lineup vs Livingston for SPFL clash

Celtic will look to continue their rich vein of form when they return to Scottish Premiership action later this afternoon.

Neil Lennon’s side welcome Livingston to Celtic Park knowing a two-goal win would take them to the top spot in the table ahead of their arch-rivals, who play on Sunday instead.

Last time out, the Hoops nudged past St Mirren with Shane Duffy and James Forrest bagging two first-half goals to counteract the home side’s opener.

So what sort of side will the 49-year-old select? Here’s what we are predicting…

We could see Lennon stick with the 3-5-2 system but there may be a trio of interesting changes across the pitch.

Vasilis Barkas will remain between the sticks as the Bhoys’ new first-choice option, though there’s a change in the back three in front of him with Christopher Jullien coming back in for Hatem Abd Elhamed.

He’ll partner both Kristoffer Ajer and fan-favourite loanee Shane Duffy.

Greg Taylor and James Forrest keep their places at wing-back after both making an impact vs St Mirren.

In midfield, there could be a shock alteration with skipper Scott Brown dropping to the bench. It means Olivier Ntcham, who has been linked with a £15m exit this summer, gets the nod instead, partnering Callum McGregor.

Ryan Christie could slot in behind the two-pronged attack of Odsonne Edouard and Alban Ajeti, who replaces Patryk Klimala. The 22-year-old has been better from the bench and Ajeti’s three goals in four SPFL matches should surely warrant a start.

AND in other news, Bhoys should reignite interest in £22.5m “big, big talent”…