Brendan Rodgers has big calls to make with regards to his Celtic team selection this Thursday now that our established stars are returning to full fitness.
Olivier Ntcham started his first match for nearly a month against Hamilton on Saturday, partnering Callum McGregor in midfield.
Scott Brown and Tom Rogic meanwhile will return to contention for Thursday’s trip to Norway, with Rodgers confirming they are both close and simply weren’t risked on Accies’ artificial pitch.
Leigh Griffiths has also made a long-awaited return, banging in a free-kick after coming off the bench in the second half.
In Brown and Ntcham’s absence, players like McGregor and Ryan Christie have really stepped up to the mark and dropping either for the clash against Rosenborg would be incredibly harsh. Brown’s experience is vital though and if he’s fit, there’s every chance the Rodgers gives him the nod.
My preference would be that the manager rests Tom Rogic for Hampden’s League Cup final showdown against Aberdeen. He’s never been a big performer away from home in Europe and Christie’s workrate could prove vital. Rogic loves Hampden, loves finals and loves scoring against Aberdeen. He has their number and should be unleashed then.
Odsonne Edouard is almost guaranteed to start despite Griffiths’ return, although having the 28-year-old back to come off the bench and add a goal threat is a major boost. He also gives Rodgers the option to bring the Frenchman off if things are going well, ahead of an energy sapping Hampden date.
For the first time in quite a while the starting eleven is rather unpredictable, and that can only be a good thing.
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