Michael Stewart states what can’t be ‘discounted’ about Celtic, namedrops Reo Hatate and Jota.
Despite winning 1-0 against Ross County on Saturday, the Celtic players were booed off the field, with the crowd evidently disappointed with their performance.
This wasn’t a case of being dissatisfied with what the squad did over the weekend; in a one-off game, that may happen.
Since Brendan Rodgers’ return to Parkhead this summer, those who paid for tickets have been vocal in their support.
Michael Stewart thinks one part of Celtic’s indifferent performances simply can’t be ‘discounted’ and that’s the players that have been in and out of the team this season, as he told The Scottish Football Podcast.
He cited Cameron Carter-Vickers, Reo Hatate, Daizen Maeda, Liel Abada, and Jota as explanations for the turgid displays.
From players being injured, sold, sent on foreign duty, or all of the above. Most of these players, if fit, are starters, although their performances have been inconsistent.
That is something to consider as we enter the second half of the season, because if that now flips, it might be season-defining for the team.
Celtic’s lack of options
“The other thing you can’t discount for Celtic is that a number of big players that haven’t really had a settled run in the team this year for a number of different reasons,” Stewart remarked.
“Carter-Vickers returned against Ross County, but did not complete the entire 90 minutes. Hatate has scarcely played. Maeda has come and gone frequently. Abada has just returned. They’ve lost Jota.
“So, when you look at things like that, it’s going to inevitably going to have a disruption to the flow of their team.”
Celtic for the title
Whilst fans also vent their frustration at a lack of transfers, which they fear could harm the club’s title chances, a certain Neil Lennon is staying firm.
Even if winger Nicolas Kuhn is the sole January acquisition of the summer, Lennon still believes the Bhoys will beat Rangers to the title.
It’s not surprising that a huge number of fans would disagree, but it’s still a good idea to be positive.
Plus, there are a few days left until the January transfer window closes, and you never know what kind of magic those in the boardroom can conjure up.
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