It’s only a few weeks into the new season with our new management team. So far, we seem to be progressing nicely. The progression can be identified in different areas, one of those most obvious areas is the rejuvenation of certain Celtic players. One being James Forest and the other the introduction of Eoghan O’Connell. Both players look very much part of the team and they look like players that cannot be dropped with their current form. However, both players have probably only found so much playing time due to the unfortunate injuries to others.
O’Connell was the last centre back standing at one stage for Rodgers and the young Celt excelled when he was called upon. Forrest got his chance with the absence of a Scott Sinclair in the side and more recently an injured Paddy Roberts.
Rodgers has stated that all his absent players will be back, in training in the next week or two. At the back O’Connell will have to shrug off a challenge from either Toure or fan favourite Sviatchenko. Luckily for Forrest, he can play on both wings but you would think Sinclair and Roberts would be first choice ahead of James. Stuart Armstrong will also be in contention for a starting place so there is plenty of competition for places. Not to mention Rodgers has already indicated his desire to bring in another two faces, he refused to reveal what positions they will fill but Celtic look set to have one of their most competitive squads going into this season.
There’s plenty of healthy competition around the middle of the park too, Nir Bitton will start training with the squad again this week and Brendan Rodgers must be looking at Tom Rogic asking himself how he can get him on the team sheet.
You’d feel for Forrest or O’Connell getting left out but you can be assured they won’t be too easy to be moved down onto the bench.
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