Jim Goodwin warns Dundee United will "upset the party" at Celtic as the champions are expected to revert to a back four. For punters: expect a close game — back Celtic to win but consider Dundee United +1 (Asian handicap) or under 3.5 goals given United’s resilience and Celtic’s defensive reset.
Goodwin demands bounce-back after derby disappointment
Jim Goodwin has admitted his side let themselves and the supporters down in last week’s derby defeat to Dundee but says there is no time to dwell on it with a high-profile trip to Celtic looming. United head to Parkhead with a point to prove after a morale-boosting 2-1 win over Celtic last month.
O'Neill return labelled "bizarre" but respected
Goodwin described Martin O'Neill’s return to Celtic for a second interim spell as "bizarre circumstances" yet acknowledged O'Neill’s proven credentials. Recalling his own brief spell as a player under O'Neill, Goodwin said the manager carries an "aura" that silences dressing rooms and commands respect.
Tactical expectations: Celtic to switch back to a back four
Goodwin expects a "different Celtic" on Saturday, predicting a reversion to a back four that could give his players a lift. United will likely prepare to frustrate and exploit spaces on the break, aiming to replicate the intensity and structure that secured last month’s shock win.
Squad news and transfer aims
United arrive at Parkhead with a full complement of players available. On the transfer front, Goodwin confirmed the club are looking to strengthen where possible after goalkeeper Yevhen Kucherenko’s exit. He praised Kucherenko’s potential but admitted that big mistakes dented the goalkeeper’s confidence.
League picture and objectives
With 12 games to go before the split, Goodwin described the top five as "very strong" and set realistic targets for United, expecting a battle for sixth place with Falkirk, Aberdeen, St Mirren and Dundee. He stressed the competitiveness of the Scottish Premiership and the importance of seizing points in the run-in.
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Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has been speaking to the media as his side prepare for Saturday's trip to Celtic. Goodwin insists the team let themselves and the supporters down in the derby defeat at home to Dundee last week but can't afford to "dwell on it". Goodwin was a Celtic player during O'Neill's first two years in charge but never made an appearance under the Northern Irishman.
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