Celtic will look to secure a Europa League playoff spot as they welcome FC Utrecht to Parkhead this Thursday (kick-off: 8pm).
Currently in 24th spot in the table after last week’s battling 2-2 draw with Bologna, they sit on nine points from their first seven League Phase games, meaning Martin O’Neill’s side are on course to secure a playoff place.
The hosts head into the game knowing a win will secure qualification for the playoff round, although a draw or a defeat will leave them sweating on other results at the end of matchday eight. If they are to seal a top 24 spot, though, they’ll need to do it without Reo Hatate (suspension) and new signings Tomas Cvancara and Julian Araujo (ineligible).
Their visitors, FC Utrecht, enter the game having already been eliminated from the competition. Having lost six and drawn one of their League Phase games, the Dutch outfit are playing for no more than pride in their final Europa League game of the season.
Ahead of the game at Parkhead, The Scotsman has all the latest team news:
5. Sebastien Haller - FC Utrecht - DOUBT
The former Borussia Dortmund striker missed the weekend clash with Sparta Rotterdam due to a rib injury, and could miss out on the game at Celtic Park. | Getty Images
6. Reo Hatate - Celtic - SUSPENDED
The Japanese midfielder will miss the game with FC Utrecht after being sent off in last week's 2-2 draw with Bologna. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
7. Callum Osmand - Celtic - OUT
Had surgery on a hamstring injury at the back end of the last calendar year, and isn't expected back until March at the earliest. Out of the game at Parkhead on Thursday. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
8. Julian Araujo - Celtic - INELIGIBLE
The on loan full-back joined the club from AFC Bournmeouth earlier this month, but has not been registered in Celtic's Europa League squad due to joining after the deadline to add players to the roster. He won't feature on Thursday night against the Eredivisie outfit. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group