Celtic travel to Kilmarnock tonight needing just a point to be crowned Scottish Premiership champions for a third successive campaign.
Brendan Rodgers has had to navigate highs, lows and everything in between since arriving at Parkhead for a second time last summer; however, this occasion could be the defining moment of his first year back in charge.
Kilmarnock have defeated Celtic twice this season, with one victory apiece coming in the Scottish Premiership and Scottish League Cup.
The two sides shared a draw at Parkhead back in February; meanwhile, the Bhoys’ solitary win over Derek McInnes and company came last September, with Reo Hatate, Luis Palma and Greg Taylor all on the scoresheet.
On the injury front, Celtic have no major concerns following news Alistair Johnston has recovered from the lingering trauma caused by John Lundstram’s red card challenge on the Canada international last weekend.
Reviewing the home side, they have already secured continental qualification for next term; however, Derek McInnes has vowed to make Rodgers’ men ‘work’ for a result tonight.
With the significant permutations of the battle at Rugby Park in mind, 67 Hail Hail takes a look at who the Irishman could start on matchday 37 of the league calendar.
Potential Celtic team vs Kilmarnock
Joe Hart is only three games away from hanging up his gloves; nevertheless, he is a shoo-in to start as he aims to contribute to claiming the trophy-laden ending his career deserves.
Rodgers will continue with his defensive rearguard of Greg Taylor, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales and Alistair Johnston. The quartet played a significant part in nullifying the Rangers’ forward line in the Bhoys’ 2-1 victory over Rangers in the Glasgow Derby last weekend.
Callum McGregor is set to lead Celtic out once again, as he now looks to be completely over the worst of his Achilles problems. Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley cap off a formidable midfield trio that Rodgers will rely on to provide creative inspiration at Rugby Park.
Veteran winger James Forrest has cemented his place on the right and has to start amid calls from pundits for Steve Clarke to take him to EURO 2024 with Scotland. On the left, none other than Daizen Maeda accompanies the 32-year-old, and his energy is set to be a vital component in toppling Kilmarnock.
Kyogo Furuhashi’s specialty is turning up in the big moments for Celtic. Expect him to lead the line as the Bhoys target another Scottish Premiership title.
Your predicted XI in full is: Hart, Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor, McGregor, Hatate, O’Riley, Forrest, Maeda, Kyogo.