Celtic square off against La Liga side Atletico Madrid in their latest Champions League Group E showdown - with Brendan Rodgers knowing his team must secure a positive result or risk elimination.
The Hoops are winless after two straight defeats to Feyenoord (2-0) in the Netherlands and Lazio (1-2) at Parkhead earlier this month, leaving them bottom of the section and in desperate need of points.
They face another unenviable task against the Spanish giants - managed by Diego Simeone - who head into the midweek clash on a blistering run of form after winning six consecutive matches in all competitions, stretching back to a 1-1 draw against Lazio on September 19.
Celtic maintained their strong start to their Scottish Premiership campaign with a one-sided 4-1 victory over Hearts at Tynecastle on Sunday, restoring their seven-point cushion at the summit. And Rodgers is likely to stick with the same starting eleven who began the match in Gorgie, barring any late injury concerns.
Gustaf Lagerbielke and Odin Thiago Holm are back in contention after serving their one-game European suspension, but it’s expected that both players will have to settle for a place on the bench for this match.
Here’s how we think the Celts will shape up against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday:
1. Celtic predicted line-up vs Atletico Madrid - gallery (GlaW)
Brendan Rodgers maintains Celtic have deserved more than the two losses endured in their Champions League campaign as he prepares his players to arrest that run even as meeting Atletico Madrid represents their sternest test. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
2. Joe Hart - GK
Has faced criticism this season and will feel he should’ve left Tynecastle with a clean sheet on Sunday. Could be in for a busy evening.
3. Alistair Johnston - RB
A composed figure who offers a great deal in attack. The Canadian will aim to break forward where possible.
4. Cameron Carter-Vickers - RCB
Will be tasked with keeping Griezmann quiet which is no easy task, especially given the Frenchman’s current goal scoring form.