James Forrest might not be a guaranteed starter these days, but the winger reminded everyone at Hampden on Sunday just why he’s been part of Celtic’s furniture for well over a decade.
Thrust into the starting XI for the Scottish Cup semi-final against St Johnstone, Forrest rolled back the years with a performance full of purpose, drive, and intelligence.
While he didn’t get on the scoresheet in the 5-0 demolition, his influence was unmistakable. He played like a man determined not only to earn another winner’s medal but to prove he still belongs at the business end of Celtic’s squad.
At 33, Forrest finds himself on the brink of becoming the most decorated player in the club’s history. Level with Bobby Lennox on 25 major honours, he’s set to move ahead when Celtic inevitably wrap up the Premiership title. A potential Cup final victory in May would stretch that record to 27. Despite that, James has always had critics who appear unable to be positive about the winger. While every player deserves criticism when they aren’t playing well, for me, James has been on the brunt of some scandalous fan criticism over the years.
But his teammates see his value. Post-match, Jota paid tribute to Forrest’s status in the dressing room. “There’s not a single person in the locker room that doesn’t love James,” he told the BBC. “He’s a breath of fresh air… we’re just learning from him.”
That blend of experience and humility has made Forrest a respected figure at Lennoxtown, even as younger players grab the headlines. And when others — Nicolas Kuhn among them — struggle for consistency, Forrest’s recent performance is a timely reminder of his value. He’s not going to start every week, and nobody’s pretending otherwise. But when called upon, he can deliver.
Since returning from injury, Forrest has shown signs he’s still got the legs and nous to be a real asset. On Sunday, he was direct, aggressive and clearly hungry. All that was missing was a goal, but few would argue he didn’t deserve one.
In a squad brimming with attacking talent, Forrest won’t always be the first name on the teamsheet. But if Brendan Rodgers is looking for someone he can rely on during the run-in, the veteran No.49 has surely just reminded him.
