DIEGO’S IN THEGROUP FORHOOPS
CELTIC have named their squad for the Europa League group stage, with Diego Laxalt added to the pool.
The wing-back joined the Premiership champions on loan from AC Milan on deadline day and could face his parent club in the opening group fixture.
Under UEFA rules the squad must contain at least four club-trained players, and who were on another club’s books in the same association for three years between the ages of 15 and 21.
Celtic have Callum McGregor, James Forrest and Kris Ajer to meet the former quota and have left one space for a 24-man squad. An unlimited number of players can be included on the B list provided they’re under 21 and have been with the club for three years.
Karamoko Dembele, Mikey Johnston and Stephen Welsh could be selected to meet the quota but all are named on the B list.
Luca Connell has dropped out to make way for Laxalt, with new signings David Turnbull and Albian Ajeti included.
Milan will have captain Alessio Romagnoli back to face Celtic but Zlatan Ibrahimovic is still a doubt.
The Italians visit Parkhead for a Europa League clash on October 22 but had been facing a defensive crisis.
The Rossoneri tried to recruit a centre-back in the window and were keeping tabs on Kris Ajer but were unable to strengthen their squad.
However, Romagnoli will return to training on Thursday and if there are no further injury setbacks he’ll be ready to play in Glasgow.
Like Celtic, Milan face a derby before the European test as they battle Inter on October 17.