Martin O’Neill Set to Make Two Changes for Crucial LASK Clash

EXCLUSIVE: Martin O’Neill is set to make two major selection changes for Celtic’s crucial Champions League clash with LASK, with Reo Hatate reportedly dropping out and new signing Mika Baur expected to start.

The Hoops head into the second leg with a 3-0 advantage, but O’Neill has been forced into changes after Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s suspension and Alistair Johnston’s injury blow.

The Big Selection Calls

The expected Celtic XI is:

Sinisalo; Donovan, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Tierney; McGregor, Baur, Nygren; Duran, Hogh, Tounekti.

The biggest talking point is the decision to hand Baur another start while Hatate remains on the sidelines.

Baur impressed during the first leg and now appears set to get another opportunity on one of Celtic’s biggest European nights.

Hatate Faces Another Blow

Hatate’s continued absence will undoubtedly attract attention.

The Japanese midfielder has struggled to establish himself under O’Neill and has fallen down the midfield pecking order.

With Baur now seemingly preferred, questions over Hatate’s long-term future at Celtic are likely to intensify.

Johnston Injury Forces Another Change

O’Neill will also have to cope without Johnston, who is expected to remain sidelined until October with a hamstring problem.

That opens the door for Colby Donovan to continue at right-back after impressing in the first leg.

Celtic Cannot Afford Complacency

Despite holding a commanding 3-0 lead, O’Neill has warned his players that LASK will provide a completely different challenge in Austria.

The Celtic boss expects his side to come under serious pressure and knows qualification is not yet guaranteed.

With Champions League qualification potentially worth around £40 million, there is plenty riding on the result.

The Verdict

Celtic appear ready to make two significant changes for the LASK clash, with Mika Baur expected to start and Reo Hatate left out once again.

Johnston’s injury and Oxlade-Chamberlain’s suspension have also complicated O’Neill’s plans.

But with a three-goal advantage to protect, Celtic will be hoping the changes do not disrupt their momentum.

One thing is certain: all eyes will be on O’Neill’s team sheet in Linz.