Although it is too early to predict whether Celtic would be able to make ‘nine in a row’, the win at Ibrox against Rangers has undoubtedly put them in the driver’s seat for the remainder of the season. Neil Lennon’s men have enjoyed a blistering start to their Premiership campaign as an array of youngsters stepped up sensationally despite a few high-profile summer exits.
The Hoops made some smart business decisions throughout the transfer window and the gaffer succeeded in adding depth as well as quality all over the pitch. While the likes of Mikey Johnston and Lewis Morgan are blossoming under Lennon and first-team coach Damien Duff, the future of Daniel Arzani looks uncertain. This is true despite the Aussie youngster stepping up his recovery of late after being sidelined for more than ten months upon rupturing his ACL on his debut last season.
The 20-year-old was in the limelight for becoming the youngest player of the 2018 World Cup. Manchester City were quickest to react and roped in the attacker from their sister club Melbourne City. A two-year loan move to Celtic made the fans ecstatic, but the euphoria soon turned into a nightmare for the player as well as the Parkhead faithful.
His move to Celtic, meanwhile, has been questioned by Australia legend Mark Schwarzer. The injury blow is indeed unfortunate, but the former custodian has cast his doubt over Arzani’s gametime in Scotland.
“He didn’t play enough games over 90 minutes, which is something he needs to build on. The Celtic move is one which I am not sure is the best move for him just yet. But it is about playing games and continuing to develop.”
Schwarzer told Goal as he highlighted how highly rated the youngster is back in his homeland.
Is Schwarzer Right About The Celtic Switch?
Arzani, who prefers to feature across either wing or in behind the centre-forward, would find himself deep down the pecking order behind James Forrest, Mikey Johnston, Lewis Morgan, Jonny Hayes, Scott Sinclair as well as the Southampton loanee Mohamed Elyounoussi. Ryan Christie and Tom Rogic hold more experience in the ‘number 10’ role and the former A-League starlet might see his minutes confined to the Cup outings only.
Why Lennon Should Consider Arzani In His First-team Plans?
The youngster is still working on his fitness, but the attributes he holds mark him as one of the next-gen stars of the game. His pace, swift movements and footwork along with dribbling skills, would boost the Hoops furthermore high up the pitch. Arzani, therefore, should be integrated slowly with the set-up to explore the best of his qualities.