Celtic icon slates £9.5m Hoops signing and labels him ‘unfit’ as major flaws outlined

The Republic of Ireland international joined the Hoops earlier this summer on a permanent basis, having impressed on loan previous season.

Adam Idah, Celtic’s new £9.5 million acquisition, has been told to “step up” and prove he is worth such a hefty price tag following his permanent move from Norwich City this summer.

Frank McAvennie, a former Celtic and Scotland striker, claims the 23-year-old forward “looked a lot sharper last year” during his successful six-month loan spell than this season.

The Republic of Ireland international enjoyed the most prolific season of his career last season, netting nine goals in 19 appearances across all competitions for Celtic. However, Idah has not to score or assist in his last eight games for Parkhead or his country, and his goal against Hearts on Saturday was disallowed for offside.

He also hasn’t played 90 minutes of football since Celtic’s 2-0 league loss to the Jambos in March. McAvennie says the striker is “unfit,” but is certain that manager Brendan Rodgers will get him back on track.

“He doesn’t look fit, but I believe Brendan will get him fit,” McAvennie told Football Insider.”He appeared much sharper last year than he does now; even when he was playing for the Republic of Ireland, I noted his touch, but I didn’t think he held the ball up as well as he does now.

“I’m not sure if he’s experiencing problems or if there’s anything else going on, but he should concentrate on it. There is no doubt about how good he is; we all know what he can do in Celtic and Irish colours.

“But he doesn’t have to stand up and be the guy for the Republic of Ireland; they aren’t the best team in the world, so as a striker, he needs to start holding up the ball rather than having it bounce off him.

“He needs to assist his teammates, and I think he should do so at Celtic as well. He’ll need to improve his fitness before we can see his full potential.”