There’s nothing much more Celtic can do in the five remaining post-split league fixtures than try to restore some pride at the end of a hurtful season and keep the players in prime confidence as they aim to end the season on a high note with a Scottish Cup triumph.
That’s no more true than today when they host David Martindale’s Livingston side in what will be their last match before meeting rivals Rangers in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup next Saturday.
Failure to win would hardly register in a campaign full of disappointments, but it wouldn’t be ideal preparation for the clash at Ibrox as Celtic look to deny their Old Firm foes a league and cup double.
The substitutes are: Barkas, Duffy, Bitton, Griffiths, Soro, Ajeti, Christie, Rogic, Laxalt.
And the starting XI is...
. GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - APRIL 08: James Forrest during a Celtic training session at Lennoxtown on April 08, 2021, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - APRIL 08: James Forrest during a Celtic training session at Lennoxtown on April 08, 2021, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group) Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group
. GK - Scott Bain
The former Dundee keeper retains his place in goal. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
. DR - Jonjoe Kenny
The right-back makes his 11th appearance since joining on loan from Everton in January. Photo: Ross MacDonald - SNS Group
1. GK - Scott Bain
The former Dundee keeper retains his place in goal. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
2. DR - Jonjoe Kenny
The right-back makes his 11th appearance since joining on loan from Everton in January. Photo: Ross MacDonald - SNS Group
3. DL - Greg Taylor
The left-back returns to the starting XI after missing the last couple of months through injury. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
4. DC - Kristoffer Ajer
This is the Norwegian's 50th appearance of the season for club and country. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group