Celtic’s midfielder, Matt O’Riley, has been summoned to the national team for the forthcoming friendlies against Switzerland and the Faroe Islands after initially missing out.
This call-up comes as a direct replacement for Brentford’s Christian Norgaard, who unfortunately had to withdraw from the squad due to an injury. At just 23 years old, O’Riley represents a vibrant prospect for Denmark, bringing fresh energy and perspective to the team.
O’Riley isn’t a stranger to the Danish national squad, having earned his first cap in a European Championship qualifier against Northern Ireland in 2023. Despite this being his only international appearance so far, his inclusion in the squad speaks volumes about the potential seen in him.
The young midfielder had an explosive start to the season with Celtic, showcasing remarkable and was arguable Celtic’s best player. However, despite a slight dip in form recently, O’Riley’s performances have consistently outshone several of his teammates. This slump has been a point of frustration for both the player and the fans, who have seen glimpses of his brilliance but long for more consistent displays of his talent.
O’Riley’s journey with Celtic this season has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Initially setting the Scottish Premiership alight with his dynamic midfield displays, his slight dip in form has been noticeable. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that even in this period of fluctuating performances, O’Riley has remained a cut above many, maintaining a level of play that many of his teammates strive to reach.
The upcoming friendlies present an opportune moment for O’Riley to not only showcase his prowess on an international stage but also to regain his top form as Celtic heads into a crucial part of their season. With the European Championships on the horizon, a strong showing could cement his place in Denmark’s squad for the prestigious tournament.
First up for Matt is a pivotal league tie against St Johnstone on Saturday before meeting up with his international teammates.
