‘I don’t agree’, ‘What message does it send’: BT Pundit Not Happy with Celtic Scenario

CHRIS SUTTON has delivered his big verdict ahead of the Scottish Cup Final on Sunday and set out who he believes should be playing in the key positions.

Neil Lennon introduced some freshness to the team over the past two games and we’ve won, in large part, because of the changes.

But the Celtic manager has discussed bringing back the hardcore part of his team to try and bring home the silverware on Sunday. That means bringing back some underperformers and dropping some players who are on form.

Sutton isn’t having any of that, he believes the best team needs to go out on Sunday and sentiment should not be playing a role in what’s going on.

Celtic have become less predictable in the last two games due to the midfield influence of Ismaila Soro and David Turnbull, coming into the team together, the pair are building a nice partnership but that looks almost certain to be split up for the day or at least a portion of the game.

Here is how Chris would play it on the day, speaking to RecordSport Podcast, the former Celtic striker had a lot to say as usual:

“What’s he done wrong? He hasn’t been overly worked but he’s looked extremely competent.

“It seems to be an easy choice. Barkas had big money splashed out on him, looks like he’s just bereft of confidence. Hazard will remain in goal unless he makes mistakes. He deserves his chance.

“I think the back four will be Ajer, Jullien, Duffy and Laxalt. I’m not really sure why Laxalt was left out against Kilmarnock. Taylor didn’t have a bad game but I think a Cup Final, you play your strongest team.

“Jullien was out for a long period, and I just wonder whether if Duffy is feeling more secure with Jullien alongside him. Ajer is showing his versatility by playing right back. In many respects, that’s a help for Jeremie Frimpong, who doesn’t have that defensive responsibility.

“Celtic have had massive problems defensively, they’re certainly not out of the woods. I think Celtic look a better back line with [Jullien] in there.”

“I don’t agree with Neil in his assessment about being loyal. There’s no room for sentiment at this moment in time for the Celtic team. It’s about winning. It’s about building momentum.

“No way am I suggesting that Scott Brown is finished. But what message does it send out when you go into a Cup Final and you’re not playing the players who deserve to be in the team on merit? Soro deserves to be in the team on merit of his last performances, and so does Turnbull.”

“Frimpong would be the better option in terms of a byline winger. He seems to be happy without that real defensive responsibility. I think Frimpong has to start on the right.”