McGregor To Return? | Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Dundee United | OneFootball

Despite the crisis and conundrums, Celtic have been grinding out results under Martin O’Neill since returning as interim chief, replacing Wilfried Nancy earlier this year. Hearts’ surprise defeat against Kilmarnock has boosted their Premiership hopes, as the Hoops are now two points behind the league leaders ahead of locking horns with Dundee United at Tannadice Park.

The Tangerines suffered a 4-0 defeat at Parkhead in January, but scripted a second-half comeback in their own backyard when these two sides clashed heads in December. They have not been beaten at home since February, and it remains to be seen whether Jim Goodwin’s men extend their strong run on Sunday afternoon. Celtic, on the other hand, would aim for all three points and pray for Hearts’ setback against Dundee to clinch the top of the table spot before the international break.

Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Dundee United

Defence

The reason behind Kasper Schmeichel’s struggles is now clear: the veteran Dane requires two shoulder operations, which could end his career. However, Viljami Sinisalo is relishing his opportunities between the sticks, and the Finnish custodian should make them count to cement the ‘number 1’ status beyond this season.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JANUARY 10: Benjamin Nygren of Celtic scores his team’s third goal during the Premier League match between Celtic and Dundee United at Celtic Park on January 10, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Julian Araujo remains in doubt this weekend due to a thigh strain. Alistair Johnston is doing light training, but the Canadian must not be rushed into action, given his long injury layoff. O’Neill has preferred Colby Donovan over Anthony Ralston, and the young right fullback should keep his place, having impressed against Motherwell. Benjamin Arthur has been headstrong in deep defence, but the on-loan Brentford centre-back could make way for Auston Trusty, who is eligible again after serving his suspension. Liam Scales is expected to retain his starting status, and so is Kieran Tierney down the left, ahead of Marcelo Saracchi.

Midfield

Callum McGregor is on track to be fit against United. His return should help the Celts dominate the midfield battle, as the veteran Scotsman would orchestrate the show from the base as a deep-lying playmaker. Arne Engels is closing in on a return, but the gaffer is likely to stick with Reo Hatate and Benjamin Nygren as the ‘number 8’ pair. Engels might get involved from the bench, along with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Paulo Bernardo and Luke McCowan.

Attack

Tomas Cvancara has been effective from the bench of late, and the manager should reintegrate him high up the pitch, shifting Daizen Maeda to the left-hand flank. Hyun-Jun Yang must have cemented his starting status, scoring a brace against the Well. Sebastian Tounekti, James Forrest, Kelechi Iheanacho, Junior Adamu and Joel Mvuka are available among the alternate attacking options, and some of them could make the matchday squad as substitutes.