Bologna v Celtic: Key man out for Europa League, four youth players on bench

Celtic take on Bologna in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday evening. With the Italian club in a terrible run of form, a further boost has come in the way of Martin O’Neill’s side.

Santiago Castro is a key part of Vincenzo Italiano’s starting eleven. He has seven goals in all competitions so far this season, with six of those coming in Serie A.

The Argentine has also been scouted by English clubs in recent months, having found the net ten times last season. He also assisted eight times, showcasing a rather complete game for such a young footballer.

In what looks like a boost for Celtic, the 21-year-old is not part of the squad for Thursday’s clash.

Tuttomercatoweb report this is because of an illness. The striker didn’t train with the Serie A side on Wednesday. He’s now set to miss out, having started the last three Serie A games.

Riccardo Orsolini was also a doubt for the Celtic match, but he’s made enough of a recovery to be included. Due to other fitness problems, Bologna are likely to have a total of four youth players on their bench this evening.

The Rossoblu last won a game towards the end of November, so it’s clear things aren’t exactly going well for them. They haven’t picked up a single win in 12 league games now, losing to relegation battlers Fiorentina at the weekend.

This should give confidence to Celtic. While Martin O’Neill’s side have problems of their own, but Bologna’s issues can make the game a very interesting one later today.