Callum McGregor returns to the Celtic starting lineup for their Scottish Premiership match against Aberdeen. Manager Martin O'Neill confirmed the team news on Tuesday, with the skipper recovered from a sickness bug to lead the side at Celtic Park.
According to a report from OneFootball, the champions host Stephen Robinson's Dons as they continue preparations for their upcoming European campaign. The team shows one change from the side that beat Falkirk at the weekend, with McGregor coming back into the midfield. Vil Sinisalo starts in goal behind a back four of Colby Donovan, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty and Liam Scales.
Who starts in midfield for Celtic?
McGregor's return is a significant boost. He starts in the centre of the park alongside Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Benji Nygren. This trio will be tasked with controlling the tempo against an Aberdeen side that lost to Rangers last time out. Oxlade-Chamberlain brings considerable experience, having made over 30 appearances for the club since his arrival.
Celtic's current squad depth is illustrated on our squad page, which lists all registered players. The team's form has them sitting comfortably in the league standings, aiming to extend their lead at the top.
What is the attacking lineup?
The forward line remains unchanged from the weekend victory. Camilo Duran, who scored a brace against Falkirk, leads the attack. He is supported by Hassan and Yang on the flanks. Duran's goalscoring form has been important for Celtic's title defence this season.
The bench features three new signings who could make their debuts. Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, Chelsea attacker Shim Mhueka, and Sorensen are all listed among the substitutes. Their inclusion indicates O'Neill's intention to integrate them quickly as the squad is finalised for European competition.
How does this affect European preparations?
O'Neill has spoken about working frantically to settle his group for continental football. Naming a strong side against Aberdeen is part of that process, allowing key partnerships to develop. The manager has a busy period ahead, with fixtures coming thick and fast.
Fans can track the upcoming schedule on our fixtures page. The team's next match after this is a trip to face Hearts at Tynecastle on September 10th. Securing three points against the Dons would provide ideal momentum before that away game.
Celtic's full team to face Aberdeen is: Sinisalo; Donovan, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Scales; McGregor, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Nygren; Yang, Duran, Hassan. Subs: Johnstone, McCowan, Tounekti, Sorensen, Baur, Mhueka, Murray, Forrest, Ralston.
