Celtic Predicted XI vs Hibs… Brendan Rodgers makes three changes ‘terrific’ 26-year-old starts vs Hibs

Wed 6 December 2023 9:45, UK

Celtic face a tough task tonight as they face a rejuvenated Hibs side as they look to keep their grip at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

After Brendan Rodgers’ admitted he gave his team a half time rollicking at St Johnstone, I fully expect the Hoops gaffer to ring in the changes as he rewards players who made a difference and a positive contribution to the 3-1 win at Perth.

So with that in mind, here is TBR Celtic’s predicted XI to face Hibs.

Tomoki Iwata starts for Celtic vs Hibs

As I said earlier on TBR Celtic, Rodgers hinted yesterday that Iwata could start and I believe he will against the capital club.

In his last two substitute appearances, the Japan midfielder has impressed and even got on the scoresheet in the process.

With David Turnbull lacking the necessary quality to sustain a place in Rodgers’ side, it’s time Iwata was given a proper chance to stake his claim for the Reo Hatate spot.

The inclusion of Iwata means that Callum McGregor will be pushed further up the pitch to join the attack with Matt O’Riley.

Mikey Johnston starts and Alistair Johnston drops out for Celtic vs Hibs

The addition of Mikey is a no-brainer. His second-half performance against St Johnstone means he gets a deserved starting place ahead of Hyunjun Yang who has struggled of late.

The 24-year-old has shown fleeting glimpses of what he can do for Rodgers and I believe he will get the nod tonight.

The controversial one, for me, is Alistair Johnston. The Canadian international has looked a shadow of the player he was when he first signed for Celtic in January of this year and after struggling in Celtic’s last three games, I believe he needs a wee spell on the sidelines.

Deputising for Johnston is Anthony Ralston. At home against Hibs is the perfect opportunity for Rodgers to issue Ralston a challenge to see if he has enough about him to compete for the right-back position.

Of course, I am not saying Johnston will drop out of the team altogether but with Rodgers looking to add quality to the side in January, Ralston needs an opportunity to prove that the Celtic manager doesn’t need to worry about the right fullback area.