Greg Taylor watched from the sidelines as PAOK were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw against Wolfsberger in Thessaloniki on Thursday night, leaving their Europa League qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
Taylor’s new chapter in Greece has started slowly, with patience required as he fights for a place in the starting eleven.
PAOK now face a daunting trip to Austria for the second leg of their third-round qualifier, knowing they’ll need to score away from home to keep their European campaign alive.
While Taylor remained on the fringes, a familiar name to Celtic fans was involved from the outset, Jonjoe Kenny. The English right-back, who spent a loan spell at Celtic Park under Neil Lennon, played the full match in what was a tense affair at the Toumba Stadium.
The Greek international striker has struggled to settle in North America since departing MLS side Atlanta United, and a return to his homeland now looks to be on the cards.
Giakoumakis made a strong impression during his time in Glasgow after arriving from VVV Venlo in 2021. He was one of Ange Postecoglou’s early signings, joining for a modest £1million and becoming a key figure in the club’s title-winning side during the Australian’s first season in charge.
The 30-year-old left Celtic in early 2023, heading stateside in search of regular minutes and a new challenge. But with game time drying up in Mexico, a return to Greece could offer him the chance to get back on track, potentially reuniting with his former teammate Taylor in the process.
PAOK’s next outing will now be a decisive one in Austria, with plenty riding on the outcome for all involved.
