Aberdeen predicted XI v Celtic: McGrath starts over Gueye, 2 changes
Aberdeen will be out to cause an upset at Hampden Park, as they face league champions Celtic in the Scottish Cup final.
The Dons missed out on qualifying automatically for European football last weekend, as they were beaten by Dundee United and pushed down into fifth on the final day, meaning they were forced into the Conference League qualifiers.
However, a win over the Bhoys would mean Jimmy Thelin’s side clinch a place in the Europa League play-offs, which would guarantee them Conference League football next season at the very least.
Taking on the champions is a daunting task though, and Celtic beat Aberdeen 5-1 in the penultimate game of the season, despite mostly playing reserves.
Morris and Gueye left out
After a dismal last four games of the domestic campaign saw his side relinquish their grip on fourth spot, Thelin has a number of decisions to make heading into the final.
Dimitar Mitov will play in goal, with Graeme Shinnie and Alexander Jensen likely preferred at full back after Nicky Devlin’s poor display against Rangers a couple of weeks ago.
Alfie Dorrington returns from suspension, and could come back into the side to partner Mats Knoester in the centre of defence.
Further forward, Thelin has a number of choices to make, deciding who should occupy the three positions behind Kevin Nisbet.
Jamie McGrath has often been utilised in the ‘ten’ against Celtic in the past, with his work rate and defensive abilities vital in shutting down Brendan Rodgers’ side.
If McGrath gets the nod, then Pape Habib Gueye will miss out, with Jeppe Okkels and Topi Keskinen on the flanks.
Aberdeen must remain disciplined
Celtic are by far the superior team, and will likely end Saturday’s (24 May) with more possession and shots than their opponents.
However, if the Dons can stay in the game, then they can possibly utilise the aerial abilities of Knoester and Dorrington, and capitalise on set pieces.
West Ham and Leeds are linked with Daizen Maeda, and the Celtic attacker will be the main threat at Hampden, with 16 league goals this season.
If Thelin’s side can keep the Japanese international quiet, then they will give themselves at least a chance of pulling off a shock.