O’Neill To Make Defensive Changes? | Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Dundee United

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill is reportedly considering defensive changes ahead of their upcoming match against Dundee United. The Scottish champions recently emerged from a disappointing Europa League loss to Benfica, before securing a narrow 2-1 league victory over bottom-placed Hibernian. Their confidence appears to be on an upward trajectory as they prepare to face the reigning Premiership champions at Parkhead.

The Tangerines have faced significant challenges in the past. They suffered a devastating 4-0 defeat when they hosted Celtic in the League Cup earlier this season, but have won two of their last three league meetings since then. Their ongoing five-game unbeaten streak should provide them with a morale boost for the upcoming midweek fixture.

For the Celtic lineup, Martin O’Neill has opted to replace Viljami Sinisalo with Sam Johnstone in goal, and the veteran Englishman is expected to retain his starting position after back-to-back starts against Benfica and Hibernian. O’Neill may rely on summer signing Jordan Lotomba ahead of Anthony Ralston on the right flank. The return of Cameron Carter-Vickers from injury could see him partner with Liam Scales at the heart of the defense.

Kieran Tierney is expected to retain his place on the left wing, as he remains the preferred option despite the arrival of Landon Emenalo from Chelsea on a season-long loan. In midfield, Celtic have found stability following the arrival of Mika Baur from Paderborn as Arne Engels' successor. Baur's preferred role involves down-the-middle runs and box-to-box movements rather than defense-breaking tasks.

Benjamin Nygren has proven to be an efficient advanced playmaker with his goal-scoring and assisting abilities, although his lack of work ethic has often been criticized. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Oliver Sorensen, Luke McCowan, and Joël van den Berg could feature from the bench, demonstrating their versatility in different midfield roles.

With Yang Hyun-jun sidelined due to a hamstring strain, Callum Osmand is set to start on the left if cleared to play before the match. Haissem Hassan must return to the starting XI and reclaim his position on the right flank. James Forrest, Jota, and Sebastian Tounek could receive some minutes as second-half substitutes.