Tonight Celtic look to try and kick start their season against Sparta Prague in the Czech Republic. The Europa League is all but gone but the Hoops will be seeking revenge for that 4-1 humbling they received at the hands of a second string Prague side almost three weeks ago.
Lennon will be hopeful of a positive result as fan pressure builds, and although the domestic scene is viewed by many fans as priority this season, Lennon knows full well what is at stake if he fails to deliver less than three points.
Bain is likely to start in goal tonight and the question will be whether Julien makes a return or will the back two be as it was from Saturday with Bitton and Ajer. Elhamed may start on the right side of defence as Frimpong has been off the boil in the last few fixtures and Laxalt on the left will be a threat if he is allowed to play further up the park.
Scott Brown will start in my opinion. His experience and his reading of the game will be required to see Celtic thru this tie and partnered with McGregor, this will hopefully allow Lennon give Rogic a license to roam in the middle of the park to give Celtic that creative spark they need.
Or will N’tcham get the nod? N’tcham has been posted missing this season as his form has been poor but, on his day, is able to produce fine performances that can inspire the side to victory. Unfortunately its has been a while since we have witnessed this type of performance so he may well start on the bench.
To get anything from the game, we must start with two up front. Edouard and Griffiths terrorised defences in the latter half of last season and Lennon should be looking to gel that partnership again.
Then who would drop out? Moi or Christie? Christie has made it known of his desire to test himself in another league so, for me, he should sit out this one. Get players in that WANT play. There is no doubting Christie still gives effort, but it will send a message to the squad.
My starting line up would be:
Bain
Elhamed Ajer Bitton Laxalt
McGregor Brown
Rogic Elyanoussi
Edouard Griffiths
Go for goals. Go for three points and get this season going.