Tam McManus has pinpointed the left-back position as a major area of concern for Celtic heading into the January transfer window.

The former striker believes the club needs to reinforce their options on the left side of defence, especially with Greg Taylor’s performances dividing opinion among the Celtic support.

Speaking on PLZ Soccer, McManus highlighted the need for competition in the left-back role and suggested fans have “never been convinced” by Taylor’s ability to perform at the highest level.

Taylor, who has been a mainstay under Brendan Rodgers, came under scrutiny for his display in the recent League Cup final victory over Rangers. Despite scoring a crucial equaliser in the 3-3 draw, Taylor’s defensive lapses, including a sloppy pass that led to Rangers’ opening goal, overshadowed his attacking contribution.

McManus didn’t hold back in his assessment and told Celtic they should also look to bring in a winger:

“Maybe somebody on the left wing to compete with Maeda as well.

“I don’t think Celtic need a lot.

“A left-back definitely. I thought Taylor was poor in the League Cup final. Celtic fans have never been convinced by him. Okay at the SPFL level. When you step up in the Champions League, I think he gets found out a little bit.

“There are also rumours that the boy Valle going back as well. So, left-back will be a priority for me.”

With the January transfer window approaching, speculation has already begun about potential reinforcements. Celtic have been linked with players such as Michel-Ange Balikwisha of Antwerp, who could provide quality on the left wing, and the possibility of a Kieran Tierney return continues to linger.

Tierney’s potential arrival would instantly address the left-back issue, though his wages and fitness history pose challenges.

Regardless, McManus’s assessment aligns with growing sentiment among fans that Celtic need more solidity and depth on the left flank to compete on multiple fronts.