Key Highlights
- Celtic make three changes for their clash with Falkirk.
- Killian Phillips and Alex Gogic return to the starting XI after injuries.
- Stirling Albion’s Craig Gordon makes his first league start of the season for Celtic.
- Falkirk also brings in Louie Marsh from Sheffield United on loan.
New Lineups as Scottish Premiership Title Race Heats Up
The Scottish Premiership is heating up with two significant matches this evening, featuring Falkirk against Celtic and Heart of Midlothian against St Mirren. The build-up to these fixtures has been intense, with several changes in team lineups aiming to secure a strong position in the title race.
Falkirk vs Celtic: Changes and Replacements
Celtic head into their match at Falkirk Stadium with three key changes from their previous lineup. Killian Phillips’ injury concerns have been allayed, as he makes it into the starting XI alongside Alex Gogic, who returns from suspension after a one-match absence.
Further inclusions see Shamal George pass a fitness test and return to the team after being substituted during their last match. Goalkeeper Craig Gordon, making his first league start of the season, is set to lead the defense against Falkirk’s attacking threats.
Meanwhile, striker Dan Nlundulu drops to the bench, with Roland Idowu coming into midfield for the first time this season.
Defender Fraser Taylor also misses out on a starting place, replaced by Oisin Smyth, who returns from Partick Thistle after being recalled. Attacking midfielder Louie Marsh is included in the Falkirk squad for the first time since joining on loan from Sheffield United, bringing fresh energy to their attack.
The only change to Falkirk’s lineup sees Kyrell Wilson replace Henry Cartwright in midfield, continuing a trend of tactical adjustments as they look to secure victory and move up the table.
Team Lineups and Substitutes
Celtic’s lineup is headed by Craig Gordon, who steps into Alexander Schwolow’s place after serving a suspension. The side features players such as Shamal George in goal, with Alex Scales, James Forrest, Kieran Tierney, and Stuart Armstrong in defense and midfield.
Up front, Leigh Griffiths, Moussa Dembele, and Patrick Roberts are all set to start, with Ryan Christie providing a supporting role. Substitutes include Harry Forrester, who is making his first league appearance since November due to injuries, while others like Callum McGregor and Andreas Bjelland stand ready to enter the fray.
Falkirk’s lineup sees Blair Spittal start in midfield for the first time since November, with Michael Steinwender coming into the right-back position. The bench is filled with players like George Findlay, who are eager to make an impact off the substitutes’ bench.
Managerial Previews and Expectations
The build-up has been lively on BBC Radio Scotland’s Sportsound, where pundits Tony Docherty and John Collins joined host Kenny Macintyre. Manager Martin O’Neill of Celtic has arrived at Falkirk Stadium, emphasizing the importance of their upcoming match in the title race.
On the other side, Heart of Midlothian’s manager John McGlynn is preparing his team for a tough battle against St Mirren. Both teams are aware that this fixture carries significant weight as they vie for top positions in the Scottish Premiership table.
The match promises to be an engaging affair, with both sides bringing their A-game to Falkirk Stadium tonight. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these tactical adjustments play out on the field.
