Celtic loanee Johnny Kenny does not see a major step down between the Scottish Premiership and English League One as he continues to find his feet at Bolton Wanderers.
Kenny made it three goals in three games in midweek, scoring in the win over Stevenage. He has quickly struck up an understanding with former Dundee United forward Sam Dalby, giving Bolton a focal point that has been missing for spells this season.
Kenny headed south after failing to nail down a starting role at Celtic. Six goals in 22 games in all competitions wasn’t enough to convince he was ready to lead the line week in, week out.
He missed key chances to put games to bed during Wilfried Nancy’s short tenure, sparking discussion that he simply wasn’t a Celtic striker.
Kenny’s early impressions of League One have not surprised him. He said (TCW):
“I wouldn’t say that it’s a lot different from the Scottish Premiership.
“I’ve been playing at Celtic Park now for the last year and at other stadiums in Scotland. We’re going to 60,000 at Celtic Park, and now we’re coming here. I don’t know what there is here, 3,000, 4,000…
“So obviously, that part is different, but you have to control what you can control on the pitch. It can’t really affect what’s around you. You just need to focus on the pitch.”
The striker had to wait for his chance after arriving with an injury, something that stalled his momentum early on. He continued:
“I came in with a calf injury, so it set me back probably two or three weeks, so I was just trying to build up to full fitness. But I have a connection on the pitch with Sam Dalby.”
There are clear differences in style, even if Kenny does not see a gulf in quality.
“Down here, it’s probably a bit more physical than what I’m used to up the road. Probably a bit more direct at times, but it’s something I want to learn and get used to.
“I want to be here until the end of the season and perform and get us back to where we belong.”
Back at Celtic, the striker picture remains unclear.
Martin O’Neill is still searching for a reliable focal point. Tomas Cvancara and Junior Adamu have yet to make the role their own, offering little consistency when handed opportunities.
Kelechi Iheanacho looks the most natural option, but his ongoing fitness issues have made it difficult for him to build any rhythm across the campaign.
Kenny’s return in the summer will land him back in that same conversation, but there are no guarantees.
A new permanent manager could reset things and offer another look. Equally, there may be a clear-out, with decisions taken quickly on those not deemed good enough to push the squad forward.
