SKIPPER Scott Brown will miss Celtic’s Premiership meeting with St Johnstone at Parkhead tomorrow afternoon.
The Hoops’ midfield powerhouse is serving a one-match suspension and his place could be taken by Emboue Kouassi who was so impressive during Thursday’s 1-0 Europa League victory over Zenit St Petersburg.
That could free a place in midfield for Charly Musonda who came on as a late substitute for the Ivory Coast ace and set up the winning goal for Callum McGregor.
Tom Rogic, who hasn’t featured at all in the first team for two months after being sidelined with a knee injury, could also get some much-needed game-time against the Perth outfit.
Brendan Rodgers, of course, has his usual casualty list to contend with. Nir Bitton is likely to be out for the remainder of the campaign with a knee problem and will be joined on the sidelines by Dedryck Boyata (groin), Craig Gordon, Anthony Ralston (both knee), Leigh Griffiths, Marvin Compper (both calf), Jonny Hayes (broken leg), Stuart Armstrong (hernia) and Patrick Roberts (hamstring).
Meanwhile, Saints boss Tommy Wright admitted his side, who are sitting eighth in the table, are struggling for form.
He said: “Last year we were criticised because we were an old team, but we are a younger squad this year and nobody seems to have picked up on that.
“We have a lot going for us. We are in a sticky patch and things have to improve, but what has been said and written is a bit harsh on the players.”
The McDiarmid Park side gained a surprise 1-1 draw in the east end of Glasgow earlier in the season, but the champions won 4-0 in Perth.
