The reigning Scottish champions are back at Parkhead five days after fielding a make-shift team against Hibs with more than a dozen first-team players and staff unavailable through self-isolation, in the aftermath of Christopher Jullien’s positive test for Covid-19.
The likes of Shane Duffy, Diego Laxalt and David Turnbull were available, which was of some consolation to Gavin Strachan, the first-team coach who took the team and the experienced trio with Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Hazard will be expected to again make up for the absence of key players like Kristoffer Ajer, Ryan Christie, Odsonne Edouard, Leigh Griffiths.
It is the first of two games in quick succession against the West Lothian side, as Celtic move to catch up on their outstanding matches which has left them three games behind league leaders Rangers.
Today’s game at Parkhead is followed by a trip along the M8 on Wednesday – when it’s hoped more options will be available.
The Celtic bench for this afternoon is: Doohan, Taylor, Connell, Robertson, Okoflex, Henderson, Harper, Welsh, Karamoko.
And the starting XI is...
5. WBL - Diego Laxalt
The Uruguayan keeps his place on the left-side of an attacking formation. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
6. WBR - Jeremie Frimpong
The young defender maintains an element of continuity in the side. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
7. MC - Ismaila Soro
The midfielder's industry has made him undroppable since he stepped into the first-team picture. Photo: Ross Parker - SNS Group
8. MC - David Turnbull
The midfielder has scored five goals in eight starts for Celtic so far this campaign. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group