One player who has flown under the radar since joining Celtic is former Manchester Utd man Lee O’Connor. The versatile defender joined the Scottish Champions on deadline day back at the start of September and has been going about his business for the developmental side.
When the deal was done many Manchester Utd fans were up in arms the club would let O’Connor leave on a permanent basis – we got the scoop from a well informed Utd account about the player’s upside.
The Irishman was called up the under 21 international squad this month and last night he stole the show in a game where the Irish took it to the Italians and were unlucky not to win on the night. The game ended 0-0 – earning Ireland a point who consolidated their place atop their Euro qualifying group.
Many took to social media after the game to praise the squad but in-particular the new Celtic starlet O’Connor who sounds as if a first team Celtic call up could be on the way this season.
Was late sticking on the match but Lee O'Connor looks top notch at full back #IRLU21
— Peter Farrell (@PeterFarr_) October 10, 2019
Unlucky not to win that, Lee O’Connor very tidy
— Ciarán Farrell (@CiaranF96) October 10, 2019
Idah was superb with his back to goal and menacing on the turn. He gave the Italian backline nightmares.
Other standouts: Conor Ronan, Coventry, Molumby & Lee O'Connor. Non-stop action and guts.
Obafemi was a livewire when be came on.
Hugely encouraging. This bunch is special.
— Richard Chambers (@newschambers) October 10, 2019
Very promising + enjoyable match.
Centre halves outstanding, Idah had a great 2nd half and caused huge problems, Molumby + Lee O'Connor never stopped and were great at knitting play together.
But above all, fantastic positive attitude to go toe-to-toe with the Iti's.#EireAbu
— The Opel Jersey (@TheOpelJersey) October 10, 2019
Lots to like again tonight from the U21s but I'm a big fan of Lee O'Connor – never flustered, reads the game well, comfortable in possession. Shades of Steve Finnan. https://t.co/axD81hiZkc
— Anthony Pyne (@AP_Pyne) October 10, 2019