Celtic has returned to form with a hard-fought late victory over Dundee. Although they currently sit in third place in the league, a successful run could see them vie for the championship title, challenging Hearts and Rangers. The regular season wraps up this weekend, with the Hoops preparing to face off against relegation-threatened St Mirren on Saturday afternoon.
So far, Celtic has secured two consecutive 1-0 wins in the league. However, in their last matchup, they suffered a 1-3 defeat in the League Cup. The reigning Scottish champions will need to achieve back-to-back victories against the Buddies, both in the Premiership and in next weekend’s Scottish Cup semifinal.
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Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup Against St Mirren
Defence
Following Kasper Schmeichel’s season-ending shoulder surgery, Celtic has turned to Viljami Sinisalo and Ross Doohan as their goalkeeping options. Sinisalo, who has served as the veteran’s backup, is anticipated to maintain his starting role for the remainder of the season.
DUNDEE, SCOTLAND – MARCH 22: Kieran Tierney of Celtic is challenged by Luca Stephenson of Dundee United during the William Hill Premiership match between Dundee United and Celtic at Tannadice Park on March 22, 2026, in Dundee, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)
With Colby Donovan, Julian Araujo, and Alistair Johnston all sidelined, Anthony Ralston is likely to be the only available senior right-back for the upcoming match. Despite Benjamin Arthur’s impressive performances, manager Martin O’Neill is expected to stick with the established central defensive pairing of Auston Trusty and Liam Scales, who have been crucial during Cameron Carter-Vickers’ injury absence.
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Marcelo Saracchi played the role of a ‘super sub’ for Kelechi Iheanacho against Dundee, but the Uruguayan will step in for Kieran Tierney, who has been the preferred left-back following his return to Parkhead this summer.
Midfield
Arne Engels is nearing a return from his thigh injury, but Saturday’s match against St Mirren may come too soon for him to start in the centre. With options like Reo Hatate, Luke McCowan, and Paulo Bernardo, O’Neill is likely to rely on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who provides a solid balance between defence and attack while operating alongside Callum McGregor in a deeper midfield role. Benjamin Nygren is expected to take on a free role as an advanced playmaker, utilizing his creativity in the attacking third.
Attack
After dropping Iheanacho in favor of Tomas Cvancara against Dundee following a loss to Dundee United, O’Neill may reinstate the Nigerian as he scored the winning goal off the bench. Hyun-Jun Yang is anticipated to showcase his talent from the right flank, whereas Daizen Maeda’s inconsistent form remains a concern, even though the manager has leaned on the versatile Japanese player on the left, ahead of Sebastian Tounekti and James Forrest.