As Martin O’Neill gets Celtic ready to take on Falkirk, there are three alterations the Hoops boss should weigh up for the Scottish Premiership encounter.
Celtic now trail Hearts by nine points in the Scottish Premiership standings, with the Bhoys once again needing to close the gap this week.
Following the midweek Europa League demands, Martin O’Neill must consider rotating his squad ahead of Celtic’s match against Falkirk.
Here are three changes the Celtic manager should assess to ensure he selects the strongest and freshest possible side to keep all three Premiership points at Parkhead.
Colby Donovan should be rested for Celtic vs Falkirk
Young Colby Donovan has been hugely impressive for Celtic this season, making 22 appearances for the first team.
Notably, Donovan has accumulated more minutes in Celtic’s Europa League run than he has in the Scottish Premiership.
However, at just 19 years of age, Donovan’s game time needs careful management, and he should be left out for Falkirk’s visit to Celtic Park this afternoon.
While Donovan has shown maturity beyond his years and delivered strong performances, Julian Araujo should return to Celtic’s starting XI for this important league fixture.
Sebastian Tounekti should drop to the Celtic bench
Sebastian Tounekti has been among the most exasperating players to watch at Celtic since completing his high-profile summer transfer.
The Tunisian is clearly gifted and willing to run at defenders, but his end product has been inconsistent, with Tounekti’s mixed start at Celtic dividing supporters.
Daizen Maeda should be shifted out to the left wing, with O’Neill bringing Tomas Cvancara back into the Celtic starting line-up.
This would place Maeda in his favoured position, where he poses the greatest threat, while also adding physicality and intensity with Cvancara spearheading the attack.