Hassan To Return To The Starting XI? Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Falkirk

Hassan To Return To The Starting XI? Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Falkirk Celtic were far from impressive on Wednesday night when they settled for a 2-2 draw with Dundee United, thanks to Liam Scales’ second-half equaliser at Parkhead. Although they maintain a four-point cushion over Old Firm rivals Rangers at the top of the Premiership standings, their performance must improve against in-form Falkirk on Sunday afternoon. The Hoops won all five meetings last season across competitions and extended the streak with a 2-1 home win in the reverse fixture earlier this campaign. However, confidence is sky-high in the Bairns’ camp following back-to-back victories over Hibernian, Kilmarnock and Aberdeen, and gaffer John McGlynn would aim for an upset, with Falkirk faithful making their presence known at Westfield. Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Falkirk Defence Sam Johnstone could have done better to stop Neil Farrugia’s goal on Wednesday night. But the veteran Englishman is expected to keep his place between the sticks, having replaced Viljami Sinisalo in recent fixtures. GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – AUGUST 29: Conor McLeod of Falkirk tackles Liam Scales of Celtic during the William Hill Premiership 2026/27 match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park on August 29, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) Alistair Johnston was forced to leave the pitch 21 minutes after being introduced as a second-half substitute against Hibernian. Colby Donovan should retain his right-back role in the Canadian’s absence, and Celtic boss Martin O’Neill must not risk Cameron Carter-Vickers on the artificial pitch, even though the USMNT centre-back is back in the squad, overcoming an injury concern. With Auston Trusty on personal leave, Dane Murray is likely to partner with Scales once again to maintain the right-foot-left-foot balance in deep defence. Also, Kieran Tierney would offer the right balance between attack and defence down the left. Midfield Skipper Callum McGregor must drive the show from the base as a deep-lying playmaker, allowing Mika Baur to carry the ball forward and operate in advanced areas. They would pair up as the ‘double pivot’, but the German offers flexibility and finesse high up the pitch. Benjamin Nygren has been consistent with goals and assists as a ‘number 10’, and the trio should keep on switching their positions throughout the game. Oliver Sorensen and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain might feature from the bench, as they remain ahead of Luke McCowan and Joel van den Berg in the pecking order among midfield options. With Yang Hyun-jun sidelined, O’Neill should opt for Haissem Hassan and Callum Osmand down the wide. Jota and James Forrest, being the understudies, could make an impact at some point in the second half. Attack Kasper Høgh has struggled up top, and the manager should opt for Camilo Duran, who would be more effective as a ‘number 9’ compared to his current right-wing role.