Celtic vs Kilmarnock: Parkhead team news with Paulo Bernardo on the bench and Diazen Maeda out

CELTIC will face Kilmarnock in their Premiership opener.

Brendan Rodgers’ side are aiming to make the 2024/2045 season the year they win their FOURTH consecutive Scottish Premier League title.

And, as is customary at Hoops, the opening of the league will begin with the raising of the champions’ flag.

The Lion of Lisbon, Jim Craig, will have the honor of raising the curtain this time.

And Celtic will be hoping to carry their good pre-season form, where they beat Manchester City and Chelsea, into the Premier League season.

But Derek McInnes’ men will not be there to complete the tally on a day of celebration for their opponents following their disappointing defeat in Europe midweek.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of another big event in Scotland socceropening weekend…

What time does Celtic v Kilmarnock start?

• Celtic take on Kilmarnock on Sunday 4th August.
• The match kicks off at 4:30pm UK time.
• It will be held at Celtic Park.

What TV channel is Celtic v Kilmarnock on and can I stream it live?

• Celtic v Kilmarnock will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.
• Coverage begins at 4pm – half an hour before the game starts.
• Sky Sports customers can stream the game live via the Sky Go app.
• You can also watch the match via NOW.
• Or why not stay up to date with all the latest news here at SunSport via our live blog?

Who is the referee and VAR for Celtic vs Kilmarnock?

Don Robertson will play the man in the middle in Glasgoweast end. He will be assisted by David Roome and Craig Ferguson on the line. Greg Aitken will be in VAR duties with assistant Jonathan Bell.

Team News

Kasper Schmeichel will make his Parkhead debut in front of a packed crowd.

Alistair Johnston is ready after a short break due to his international commitment with Canada.

Newcomer Paulo Bernardo is on the BENCH while Callum McGregor joins Reo Hatate and the sought-after Matt O’Riley.

Daizen Maeda remains OUT after picking up a knock during the pre-season tour against Chelsea, but Nicolas Kuhn is fit.

Celtic full team:

Schmeichel, Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor, McGregor, Hatate, O’Riley, Forrest, Kuhn, Kyogo.

Killie’s first-choice defender Oliver Bainbridge recently signed for Rugby Park.

Robby McRorie makes his Premier League debut for the club after signing from Rangers.

Kyle Magennis is being put back on the field after his absence last season and is not on the list of players called up.

Full Kilmarnock squad: McCrorie, Watson, Mayo, Findlay, Bainbridge, Kennedy, Lyons, Polworth, Donnelly, Murray, Vassell.

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