Shelbourne v Celtic: Kick-Off, TV & Squad

Celtic kick off their 2026/27 pre-season campaign tonight against Shelbourne in Dublin, with supporters set to get their first look at Martin O’Neill’s squad ahead of the new season.

The match kicks off at 6:00pm (UK time) at Tolka Park. Live coverage is available on Premier Sports 2, with coverage beginning at 5:50pm. Fans can also watch on CelticPlayer, where coverage starts at 5:45pm.

Senior players leading the group

With several international players still on extended breaks, the travelling party has a youthful look. Among the senior players expected to feature are:

• Callum McGregor
• James Forrest
• Arne Engels

These experienced players are likely to play an important role as Celtic begin building fitness ahead of the new season.

Youngsters handed their chance

Tonight is also a major opportunity for Celtic’s emerging talent.

Defender Dane Murray is expected to receive valuable minutes, while 17-year-old Joseph Haney has travelled due to the shortage of senior left-backs and could feature heavily.

A number of Celtic B and academy players have also made the trip, giving them the chance to impress the manager during pre-season.

One notable absentee

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has not travelled with the squad.

The midfielder is currently completing an individual training programme in Portugal and is expected to join up with the rest of the squad when they arrive there later this week.

The first step towards the new season

While it may only be a friendly, tonight marks the beginning of another campaign. With Champions League qualifiers approaching and transfer business still high on supporters’ agenda, every performance will be closely scrutinised.

For many Celtic fans, the biggest attraction won’t just be the scoreline—it will be seeing which players seize their opportunity and take an early step towards becoming part of Martin O’Neill’s plans for the season ahead.