CONFIRMED: KYOGO OUT

CONFIRMED: KYOGO OUT, IDAH ON… Read More 👇

This afternoon at Parkhead, Celtic will take on Hibernian in the Premier Sports League Cup, with a significant change in their attacking lineup. Daizen Maeda has been chosen to lead the frontline, stepping in for Kyogo Furuhashi, who has been sidelined due to a left shoulder injury sustained in the previous 2-0 victory over Hibs at Easter Road.

Maeda, known for his pace and relentless work rate, is set to spearhead the Celtic attack in place of his injured compatriot. The Japanese international has been a vital asset to Celtic since his arrival, and with Kyogo out of action, much will be expected of him in today’s crucial tie. Maeda’s ability to stretch defenses with his speed and his knack for finding spaces behind the opposition’s backline will be key to Celtic’s attacking strategy against a well-organized Hibs side.

Adam Idah, Celtic’s recent acquisition from Norwich City, will start the match on the substitutes’ bench. The Republic of Ireland international was signed earlier this week for a fee of £9.5 million, signaling Celtic’s intent to strengthen their attacking options. While Idah will not start, his inclusion on the bench indicates that manager Brendan Rodgers may be planning to introduce the powerful striker at some point during the match, depending on how the game unfolds.

Idah’s signing has generated considerable excitement among the Celtic faithful, with many eager to see how the young striker will adapt to the Scottish game. Known for his physical presence and ability to hold up play, Idah could provide Celtic with a different dimension in attack, particularly in the latter stages of the match when fresh legs could make a significant difference.

Celtic’s starting lineup for the clash against Hibs includes several key players who will be crucial in maintaining the team’s momentum in the competition. Kasper Schmeichel will start in goal, offering his vast experience and leadership at the back. The defense will consist of Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales, and Greg Taylor, forming a solid backline tasked with keeping Hibs at bay.

In midfield, the trio of Matt O’Riley, Callum McGregor, and Reo Hatate will be expected to control the tempo of the game and create opportunities for the forwards. O’Riley’s vision, McGregor’s composure, and Hatate’s energy make this a formidable midfield combination that can dominate possession and dictate the flow of the match.

The forward line, featuring Maeda, Liam Kuhn, and James Forrest, will aim to put pressure on the Hibs defense from the outset. Forrest, with his experience and creativity, will look to support Maeda in the attack, while Kuhn will add youthful exuberance and technical ability to the mix.

Manager Brendan Rodgers will likely approach the game with a focus on exploiting Hibs’ weaknesses, particularly by using the pace and movement of his forwards to unsettle the opposition defense. The absence of Kyogo is undoubtedly a blow, but Maeda’s ability to press high and force errors could prove to be a decisive factor in the outcome of the match.

Celtic’s bench is also well-stocked, with several options available to Rodgers should he need to make changes during the game. Alongside Idah, substitutes include Palma, Yang, Holm, Bernardo, Ralston, Welsh, and Turley. These players provide depth across the pitch, giving Rodgers the flexibility to adapt his tactics as the match progresses.

As Celtic prepare to face Hibs once again, this time on home turf, the team will be eager to build on their recent victory and secure a place in the next round of the Premier Sports League Cup. With the passionate support of the Parkhead faithful behind them, and despite the absence of Kyogo, Celtic will be confident in their ability to overcome Hibs and continue their quest for silverware this season.

The anticipation surrounding Adam Idah’s potential debut adds an extra layer of intrigue to the match, with fans keen to see how the new signing will integrate into the squad. As the game unfolds, all eyes will be on Maeda to see if he can fill the void left by Kyogo and lead Celtic to another victory.