The manager rang the changes against Lille in the final Europa League group stage match earlier this month, and the likes of David Turnbull, Conor Hazard and Ismaila Soro gave the boss food for thought, as did Kristoffer Ajer’s move to the right-side of defence.
Indeed, the incoming trio and the defender retained their places and helped the Hoops to a 2-0 win over Kilmarnock last weekend – but what will the manager do for Sunday’s Hampden showpiece? Will he return to the tried and trusted figures like Scott Brown and Ryan Christie with a quadruple treble on the line? Or stick with the new and improved line-up?
The Scotsman’s Celtic writer Andrew Smith ran the rule over the squad, and named the Celtic XI he expects Neil Lennon to field for the all-important and historic match.
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5. CB - Shane Duffy
Following a self-confessed horrible form dip across October/November that led him to drop out, the Brighton loanee has seemed a little more at one with himself since returning for the wins over Lille and Kilmarnock. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group
6. CM - Callum McGregor
Form has been patchy in this hideously-difficult season for Celtic but has proved himself a big game performer so often. Photo: Sanita Sparane - SNS Group
7. CM - Scott Brown
Anyone doubting the wisdom of the Celtic captain starting on Sunday might want to consider this: it will be his 14th domestic cup final, and he has helped his club to 11 wins in the previous 13. Photo: SNS Group Alan Harvey
8. LW - Mohamed Elyounoussi
Celtic’s top scorer this season with 12 goals, add in his five assists and he is a crucial component of the club’s frontline. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group