After an edgy win against Dundee in the opening gameweek, the reigning champions Celtic destroyed Kilmarnock in their own backyard by scripting an emphatic 5-1 victory. But a tricky test awaits them on Saturday evening, with Dundee United set to host Martin O’Neill’s men in the second round of the Scottish League Cup.
The Tangerines dominated this fixture last season, defeating Celtic at Tannadice Park on both occasions. However, the Hoops secured a thumping 4-0 win in Glasgow earlier this year, and a dismal defeat against Hearts last weekend exposed their frailty in the defensive third. Heartbreak in the Cup final against St Mirren prevented them from achieving a domestic treble, and the Glasgow giants must stay cautious to avoid another upset on the road.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face Dundee United
Defence
Celtic have so far relied on Viljami Sinisalo, who replaced injured Kasper Schmeichel and cemented the ‘number 1’ spot at the back end of the previous campaign. Ross Doohan has not been involved at all since his move from Aberdeen last summer, and the Scottish custodian would once again find himself as the understudy to the Finnish shot-stopper.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JANUARY 10: Benjamin Nygren of Celtic celebrates after he scores his team’s third goal during the Premier League match between Celtic and Dundee United at Celtic Park on January 10, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
A fresh injury setback would keep Alistair Johnston sidelined, and the gaffer might opt for Colby Donovan ahead of Anthony Ralston on the right. The club have yet to bring in a new left-back to deputise for Kieran Tierney, and the Tartan Army international must retain his starting status in the defensive third. Liam Scales is available for selection after serving a two-game suspension. But the balance and stability offered by Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty should not be compromised to incorporate the Irishman.
Midfield
While it remains to be seen whether Arne Engels is deployed amid reports of his impending mega-money transfer to West Ham United, new signing Mika Baur might be handed his debut in the centre of the pitch. But the manager should rely on the experienced duo Callum McGregor and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from the start before introducing the young German as a ‘super sub’. Benjamin Nygren is irreplaceable for his flair, finesse and finishing traits as a midfield attacker, and the versatile Luke McCowan could replace him at some point in the second half. Camilo Duran and Yang Hyun-jun must get the nod on the wide, and Haissem Hassan, the high-profile recruit from Real Oviedo, should grab some minutes off the bench. Sebastian Tounekti and veteran James Forrest are also available for selection down the flanks.
Kasper Høgh announced his arrival in Scottish football by scoring a hat-trick against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. The Danish hitman must spearhead the attack, with Callum Osmand likely to be rotated up top.