Celtic take on KR Reykjavik tonight in what will hopefully be the last time they have to play in the first round of Champions League qualifying for a while and Neil Lennon will, despite being frustrated at having domestic games suspended, have been glad for the extra preparation time.
The importance of the qualifying rounds takes on extra significance this season with them being a one-off shoot-out fixture, ramping up the pressure significantly with no second-leg available to make up for any mistakes.
Celtic do have home advantage – despite the obvious lack of fans – and will be hoping to start with an intensity that the Icelandic champions can’t cope with, an early goal would go a long way in settling the nerves and allow Lennon’s creative players to have more freedom knowing that Reykjavik will have to open up.
The Hoops gaffer has no significant injury worries to concern himself with though and will be free to select either of his preferred formations against a side that have lost two key players in the shape of Kristinn Jonsson and Kristjan Floka Finnbogason.
It would obviously be a disaster if Celtic were to go out at this stage, however, they should have more than enough to enjoy a comfortable evening prior to returning to league action against Dundee United at the weekend – their task made all the more easier having enjoyed watching Rangers slip up against Livingston at the weekend.
Will Celtic progress against Reykjavik?
Yes
No
Expect Lennon to go with a 4-2-3-1 shape, with Odsonne Edouard being supported in attack by Mohamed Elyounoussi, Ryan Christie and James Forrest, with the same back four and midfield as the one that drew 1-1 with Kilmarnock.
Celtic’s team almost picks itself these days which is a sign of the consistency that Lennon has managed to develop since he returned to the club and one that has stood him in good stead, no dramas, 3-0 and onto the next round – fingers crossed.