Chris Sutton has called for Viljami Sinisalo to start for Celtic against Rangers, advocating for the dropping of Kasper Schmeichel. Sutton believes Sinisalo should be trusted for the huge fixture. He suggests Schmeichel has struggled for form and been culpable for some big goals conceded.
Sutton’s Rationale for Sinisalo
Sutton stated that starting Viljami Sinisalo is a “no-brainer”. He highlighted Sinisalo’s solid performance in Germany, noting decent saves and an assured presence. Sutton added that Sinisalo didn’t take any unnecessary risks with the ball and was prepared to come for some crosses.
According to Sutton, O’Neill should pick players on form alone, which favours the Finnish keeper. Sutton said that it’s no disrespect to Kasper Schmeichel, but the Dane has been responsible for too many goals this season.
Sutton acknowledged Schmeichel’s vast experience but pointed out Sinisalo is 24 years old and not young. He referenced Martin O’Neill’s past decision to introduce David Marshall as a young player, suggesting a similar approach is warranted.
Other Selection Considerations
Sutton also gave his thoughts on a number of other selection dilemmas across the pitch. Luke McCowan scored in Germany and could have played his way into the side. Sutton believes McCowan’s running power will come in handy in the middle of the pitch, even if that does mean a bold call of dropping top scorer Nygren. And he reckons Dane Murray will start after his showing in the Europa League.
Sutton thinks Dane Murray has probably played his way into the side after his performance against Stuttgart. He feels that Luke McCowan must be banging on the door as well. Sutton stated that Celtic will need legs in midfield, especially if Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Callum McGregor start as expected.
Sutton believes that McCowan has the energy and drive to provide it. Sutton feels that Celtic can’t afford to be overrun in midfield at Ibrox and that might mean sacrifices have to be made. Sutton expects Tomas Cvancara to lead the line, while he wants to see Daizen Maeda play on the left up against James Tavernier
- Sutton wants to see Viljami Sinisalo start in goal.
- Sutton thinks Dane Murray has probably played his way into the side.
- Sutton believes that Luke McCowan must be banging on the door as well.
Sutton went on: “There are big calls required all over the pitch.”