Callum Osmand is back in the Celtic matchday squad for the biggest game of the season after Martin O’Neill named the young striker on the bench against Hearts this afternoon.
That injury in Denmark halted his momentum just days after one of the breakthrough moments of his season. Osmand announced himself properly to a wider Celtic support when he came off the bench to score against Rangers at Hampden in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final. His run across the front post and composed finish under pressure showed exactly why O’Neill rates him so highly.
Celtic have lacked that sort of direct running at times over the last few months.
Most of O’Neill’s attacking options prefer the ball into feet, but Osmand gives the side something else. He stretches defenders naturally, attacks space quickly and is willing to run beyond centre-halves even when the pass looks difficult. Against a Hearts side expected to defend deep for long periods this afternoon, that pace in behind could become valuable if gaps start opening late on.
His finishing also stands out for a player of his age. The Rangers goal at Hampden was taken calmly in a huge moment and O’Neill has spoken privately during the season about Osmand’s composure around goal in training.
The timing of his return matters too.
Celtic have looked physically drained during parts of this title run-in and the bench has not always offered much variety. Osmand changes that slightly. If Hearts begin dropping deeper protecting a result, Celtic may need runners attacking tired legs rather than another player looking to combine in crowded central areas.
There is still caution around his recovery after the setback following surgery, so a start was never likely. Even so, simply having him available again gives O’Neill another attacking route in a game where one moment could decide the title.
