Dundee United vs Celtic F.C. Lineups: Key Insights into the Upcoming Clash

The highly anticipated Scottish Premiership clash between Dundee United and Celtic F.C. promises to be an exciting fixture, with both teams gearing up for a critical encounter. As the match approaches, fans are eagerly waiting to see the starting lineups and how the teams will line up on the pitch. This article provides an in-depth look at the potential lineups, the strengths of both teams, and what to expect from this crucial match.

Dundee United’s Expected Lineup

Dundee United, known for their robust defense and quick counter-attacking style, will likely set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation for this match. Manager Jim Goodwin will want to focus on solid defensive organization while offering enough attacking threat to challenge Celtic’s defense.

Goalkeeper: Mark Birighitti is expected to start in goal, bringing stability to the backline with his commanding presence and shot-stopping abilities.

Defenders: The back four will likely consist of Kieran Freeman, Charlie Mulgrew, Ross Graham, and Calum Butcher. Mulgrew’s leadership and aerial prowess will be key against Celtic’s aerial threat, while Freeman and Graham’s pace on the flanks will be crucial to counter the attacking runs from Celtic’s wingers.

Midfielders: In midfield, Ian Harkes and Dylan Levitt will anchor the midfield. Both players have an excellent range of passing and will be expected to control possession while providing a shield for the defense. Behind the attacking midfielders, Paul McMullan will offer creativity and work rate, looking to link up play and create opportunities for the strikers.

Forwards: Up front, Steven Fletcher is likely to lead the line as the main target man. The experienced striker has the ability to hold up play and bring others into the game. He will be supported by Loick Ayina, who can provide pace and energy on the counter-attack.

Celtic F.C.’s Predicted Lineup

Celtic, under the guidance of manager Ange Postecoglou, have been playing an attacking brand of football, characterized by fast transitions and high pressing. For this match, Postecoglou is likely to stick with a 4-3-3 formation to dominate possession and apply relentless pressure.

Goalkeeper: Joe Hart will continue as the team’s number one, bringing vital experience between the posts. Known for his leadership and shot-stopping ability, Hart will need to be at his best to keep Dundee United’s attacking threats at bay.

Defenders: Celtic’s back four will most likely consist of Josip Juranović, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Carl Starfelt, and Greg Taylor. Juranović and Taylor are expected to push forward and provide width, while the central defenders will need to stay compact and organized against the aerial prowess of Dundee United’s forwards.

Midfielders: Celtic’s midfield trio is expected to include Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, and Matt O’Riley. McGregor will serve as the deep-lying playmaker, dictating the tempo and helping out defensively. Hatate and O’Riley will look to provide creativity and drive forward, with Hatate’s energy in transition being crucial to Celtic’s attacking play.

Forwards: Up front, Celtic’s attack will likely feature Jota, Kyogo Furuhashi, and Liel Abada. Kyogo, the team’s top scorer, will be the focal point of the attack, utilizing his pace and movement to stretch the opposition. Jota and Abada will provide width and creativity, looking to supply dangerous balls into the box.

Tactics and Key Battles

The battle in midfield will be pivotal in this encounter. Dundee United’s midfielders, Harkes and Levitt, will need to disrupt the rhythm of Celtic’s dynamic midfield trio. However, Celtic’s superior technical ability and pressing game could prove overwhelming for Dundee United’s midfield.

The key battle will likely occur between Dundee United’s defense and Celtic’s attacking players. Celtic’s wingers, Jota and Abada, have the pace to exploit any space left behind by Dundee United’s full-backs. Meanwhile, the experienced Mulgrew will have his hands full trying to contain the movement of Kyogo and the creativity of Celtic’s attackers.

FAQs

What formation will Dundee United use against Celtic?

Dundee United is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation for this match. Manager Jim Goodwin will likely prioritize a solid defensive structure while looking for opportunities to counter-attack. The midfield will play a crucial role in controlling the tempo and providing support to the attack.

Who are the key players for Dundee United?

The key players for Dundee United will include experienced striker Steven Fletcher, who will lead the line and look to score goals. In midfield, Ian Harkes and Dylan Levitt will be crucial in both defense and distribution, while Charlie Mulgrew’s leadership and defensive capabilities will be vital against Celtic’s attack.

What formation will Celtic F.C. play?

Celtic is expected to set up in a 4-3-3 formation, as manager Ange Postecoglou prefers an attacking style of play with high pressing and quick transitions. The formation allows Celtic to dominate possession while maintaining a high line, pressing Dundee United as soon as they lose the ball.

Who are the standout players for Celtic F.C.?

Celtic’s standout players include Kyogo Furuhashi, who will be the focal point of the attack. His pace and finishing ability make him a constant threat. Midfielders Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate will be central to Celtic’s play, providing creativity and defensive stability. Jota and Liel Abada will offer width and pace on the flanks.

How will the lineups affect the match?

The lineups will shape the tactical approach of both teams. Dundee United’s defensive setup will look to frustrate Celtic, while Celtic will look to dominate possession and break down Dundee United’s defense with their attacking quality. Key battles in midfield and defense will likely determine the outcome.

To Conclude

This encounter between Dundee United and Celtic is sure to be a thrilling spectacle. While Celtic are the favorites, having a more experienced squad, Dundee United will look to use their solid defensive structure and counter-attacking style to spring a surprise. Both teams will be eager to secure a vital three points, and their respective lineups and tactical setups will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match. 

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