CELTIC will be back in action a week on Saturday against Hamilton at New Douglas Park.
With international football underway, there’s no telling what Celtic’s starting XI will be when kick-off rolls around. Neil Lennon’s decisions will come down to who comes back fit from playing for their country along with the nucleus of the squad who have been training together during the week.
We reported earlier this week Mikey Johnston had to be sent home from the Scotland under 21 camp because of an injury. However, the Scotland under 21 manager wouldn’t tell us the extent of the problem leaving it for Celtic to divulge.
Mikey has shown he has staying power in the starting XI this season but it should not be forgotten the player being overexposed could be to his detriment. Kieran Tierney’s run of games for Deila and Rodgers culminating in an injury which plagued the defender in his last season.
That’s where one of Celtic’s most exciting summer signings comes into play. If Mikey isn’t fit or even if he recovers – give him the day off at Hamilton and let Mohamed Elyounoussi do his thing.
The £16m man has been brought in to help Mikey this season. If they share the duties out on the left it will help both players as well as not burning out young Mikey.
Elyounoussi is a top signing for Celtic; a lad completely out of our price range otherwise coming in with a point to prove and a chip on his shoulder after his Southampton frustrations. He can be an explosive player and should certainly help in Europe. With the Rennes game coming shortly after the trip to Hamilton it makes perfect sense to give the player some game time.
