KR Reykjavik have lost only two games in their last 11 matches and they are also halfway through their domestic season, so the Icelandic side will be entering this tie on form and in peak condition.
They opt for a 4-4-2 formation. With two attacking full-backs in their side, one central midfielder drops back to link up play between defence and midfield. They are a team which looks to build possession from the back whenever possible but will also kick long when necessary to start possession.
Englishman Gary John Martin is KR's attacking reference. He is the player on whom KR will be pinning their hopes on to get a goal against Celtic. He has good acceleration and is able to anticipate when the ball is played in behind, while he is also dangerous from set plays.
The injury to Scott Brown is significant to Celtic and they will struggle to replace his energy. However, in Stefan Johansen they have a player with the technical qualities to play at the highest level and I predict that the Norwegian will have an impressive season since it is Ronny Deila who has evolved him into an international player. The Celtic head coach knows how to get the midfielder to express himself on the park.
I expect to see Celtic line up in a 4-3-3, a formation which will suit their midfield rotation and gives them a numerical advantage in that area. The system can also be adapted in many ways and if your strategy is to dictate the tempo then you need that versatility.
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