Celtic have had a perfect start in domestic competitions as they have won all their Premiership matches so far. The Bhoys have once again made it to the semi-finals of the League Cup as well. Given the number of changes to the Celtic squad over the summer, Lennon’s side have done quite well to hit the ground running in the Scottish top-flight.
One player who started slowly but is now enjoying a good time is their fullback, Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo. The Belgian defensive ace has caught the eye on the offensive front initially, but he was visibly weak in defence. The Hoops dropped out of the Champions League qualifiers against CFR Cluj, and Bolingoli’s performance in the first leg was nothing short of a disaster.
As a result, Lennon went on to use McGregor as a left wing-back in the second leg which backfired, and Celtic crashed out of the competition. Many regarded Bolingoli as a failure early on, but the left-back has made a strong comeback after his poor performances. He is firmly the first choice option right now under Neil Lennon’s tutelage at Celtic Park.
Bolingoli on his time with Celtic so far
The fullback recently talked on the club’s website and said, ”In the beginning, when you arrive at a new club, it takes a bit of time to settle in, but as you see, I’m enjoying every game, and it’s amazing to play in Paradise, so I feel more comfortable now.”
”I don’t see the criticism, I just focus on my football. I know my qualities, and I knew myself that I just needed a little bit of time, but I’m happy now that I can help the team and hopefully I can just become a better and better player for Celtic.”
Is Bolingoli Good Enough To Start For The Hoops?
The Belgian wing-back has settled in well after a tough few weeks for the Glaswegian giants. Celtic managed to bring in Greg Taylor before the transfer window slammed shut. Taylor put in some eye-catching displays for Kilmarnock last season when they finished third. However, the way Bolingoli has performed recently, Taylor might have to wait for his chance in Lennon’s first-team.
Bolingoli’s display against Rangers will instil a lot of confidence to the Celtic team management and the club’s fans. He was often seen as a weak link in the back four before his stellar performance against Steven Gerrard’s men. However, he has proven his defensive qualities and has held his own at the back. With more time, he is expected to get more comfortable and hopefully from Celtic’s point of view; he could continue to impress for the Scottish champions.
