Michael Stewart states what can’t be ‘discounted’ about Celtic, namedrops Reo Hatate and Jota

This was not a case of being dissatisfied with the performance of the team in a one-off game that happened over the weekend. Since Brendan Rodgers came to Parkhead this summer and the people who paid for their tickets were able to voice their opinions, it has been a recurring topic.

According to Michael Stewart, who spoke with The Scottish Football Podcast, some of Celtic’s lackluster performances are just too consistent to be “discounted.” Stewart specifically mentioned the players that have come and gone from the squad this season.

He name-dropped Cameron Carter-Vickers, Reo Hatate, Daizen Maeda, Liel Abada and Jota as reasons behind these turgid displays. From players being injured, sold, going on international duty, or just all of the above. It has been a stop-start for most of these players, who if they are fit, are starters.

Heading into the second half of the season, that is something which needs to be taken into account because, if that now flips on its head, then it can be season-defining for the team.

Celtic’s lack of options

Stewart stated, “A number of big players who haven’t really had a settled run in the team this year for a number of different reasons are something else you can’t discount for Celtic.”

“Carter-Vickers played the entire ninety minutes, but they couldn’t hold a lead against Ross County.” Hatate hasn’t really played much. Maeda has been in and out a lot. Abada recently returned. Jota has been lost by them.Therefore, when you consider stuff like that, their team’s workflow will unavoidably be disrupted.

Celtic for the title

While supporters also express their annoyance at the lack of transfers, which they believe would hurt the team’s prospects of winning the league, one Neil Lennon is not giving up.

Lennon still believes the Bhoys will defeat Rangers to win the title, even if winger Nicolas Kuhn ends up being the only summer signing made in January. Well, it wouldn’t be shocking if a sizable portion of fans had different opinions, but optimism is still a good thing. Furthermore, the January transfer window is just a few days away from closing, and you never know what kind of magic the people in the boardroom can work.

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