As a manager, it has to be tempting to get as many of your top stars onto the field as possible in order to get a win. dilemma
Leaving top talent on the sidelines is hardly ideal but sometimes it might just be necessary.
The Celtic manager and his recruitment team set about bringing in players this summer who could fit into a 3-5-2 system. Laxalt was brought in to be left wingback, Duffy, the extra man in defence and Ajeti as the man to pair with Eddy upfront.
However, injuries and performances have forced the manager’s hand into reverting to a 4-3-3 and it looks to be paying off.
Right now, playing the 4-3-3 is the easy option because of the personnel available. Currently, we have two first team defenders out of action who would have been two-thirds of the back three. Jullien and Ajer being on the physio table mean it’s just Bitton and Duffy in the heart of the defence.
While Neil Lennon should make tentative personnel changes as the fixtures pile up, he must not get tempted to throw everybody back in and go 3-5-2 the first chance he gets.
Moi being in his correct position and Tom Rogic back in the fold have made a real difference so far. Everyone seems to know their role better and if defensive lapses can be curtailed, Celtic could go on a very positive run.
We have a lot of games, so players who are on the bench shouldn’t be on there for long periods of time. Utilise our best talent as and when we need them.
