Predicted Celtic XI for Ross County as cup clash presents opportunity with derby day looming

Celtic have one of the biggest weeks in recent memory coming up with a massive derby clash on Saturday before Celtic Park erupts with the Champions League music next week.

The kings of Europe in Real Madrid are coming to town to kick off a tantalising group stage for Ange Postecoglou' s men, but while the eyes of the Hoops fans will be glistening with the likes of Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr, the very real and immediate threat of Ross County in Premier Sports Cup action beckons first. Rangers and Madrid will have to wait.

The league leaders faced a sticky test in Dingwall earlier this month, with debut man Moritz Jenz stepping up to the plate, and the big centre-half could start again on Wednesday. Postecoglou might look to mimmic Giovanni Van Bronckhorst and ring in some changes, with the likes of Anthony Ralston and David Turnbull in with a shout.

Giorgos Giakoumakis missed the weekend's thumping of Dundee United but could provide the physical presence needed against the Staggies’ rugged defence. Liel Abada impressed beyond any doubt with a second half hat-trick last weekend and loves a goal in Dingwall.

Joe Hart took a sore one at Tannadice and could make way for Benjamin Siegrist to be given a chance for his first start since signing in the summer. Despite such big games in quick succession, however, it's hard to see the likes of Jota or Callum McGregor dropping to the bench.

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