Celtic predicted XI vs Kilmarnock as verdict made on transfer-linked duo and striker dilemma

Here’s how we think the Hoops coaching staff will set up their side at Rugby Park

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Celtic will face Kilmarnock in matchday two of the SPFL Premiership as they look to build on their opening day victory.

The champions defeated Dundee 1-0 on flag day to get off to a winning start as they now prepare for a trip to Rugby Park - which for the first time in 12 years has a grass pitch instead of 3G. Manager Martin O’Neill may not be present for Sunday’s showdown, as he continues to recover from ‘a small procedure’ in hospital earlier this week.

In terms of personnel, a similar XI to the opening day win is to be expected, however with ongoing transfer speculation surrounding right back Alistair Johnston and midfielder Arne Engels, their places in the squad are vulnerable. To add to this, the dilemma of how to fit new forward additions Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh in the same team continues. Here’s how we think Celtic will set up against Kilmarnock, using the 4-3-3 formation:

GK - Viljami Sinisalo

The Hoops stopper was a more than capable replacement for Kasper Schmeichel last season and has the number one burden of responsibility on himself now.

RB - Alistair Johnston

There’s a reason the Canadian international is linked with a Premier League giants Everton. For as long as he’s a Celtic player he’ll be their best option at right back.

CB - Cameron Carter-Vickers

A welcome sight back to the defence after his ACL injury last season. A huge player for the season ahead.

CB - Auston Trusty

With Liam Scales still suspended, it’s an easy choice for the coaching staff to slot the American in with his compatriot.

LB - Kieran Tierney

The only first team option at left back following the collapsed talks of Marcelo Saracchi. The Scotland international is a nailed on starter, but without cover, his fitness record could be cause for concern going forward.

CM - Callum McGregor

With the Saudi transfer noise surrounding the skipper decreasing in decibels, his full focus is back on lifting the Premiership trophy for the sixth year in a row.

CM - Arne Engels

Another linked with a move south of the border with West Ham circling, but he remains a player the manager admires. Along with Johnston, he’s likely to feature every game until a deal is finalised.

AM - Benjamin Nygren

Last season’s output machine is already off the mark having grabbed the only goal against Dundee. He’ll be looking to emulate or even better his 29 goal contributions in his debut season.

RW - Camilo Duran

The Colombian looks more comfortable through the middle - where he scored three in three during pre-season - but might have to get used to playing out wide to accommodate fellow big-money signing Kasper Hogh.

LW - Yang Hyun-jun

The Korean winger is clearly a player O’Neill admires and is a thorn in the side of any defence with his work rate. More often than not, he was deployed on the right last season, but started on the left against Dundee to accommodate Duran.

He missed a few chances against Dundee that perhaps you’d expect an £11m signing to do better with. The old football cliche, ‘at least he’s getting the chances’ springs to mind.