Celtic started their transfer window slowly, but they made a flurry of signings, in the end, to bolster their squad in crucial departments. Some of the signings are only on loan so that might be slightly disappointing, but Neil Lennon is well covered with options for this season atleast.
One name who joined during the end was Mohamed Elyounoussi from Southampton on loan. Left-wing could have been a problematic area for Lennon as Scott Sinclair doesn’t seem to be in contention to start. However, with Eyounoussi’s signing, the Hoops are well covered.
Hartson on Elyounoussi
Speaking to Football Fancast, former Celtic striker John Hartson believes that Lennon can bring the best out of Elyounoussi this year. Hartson said, ”I think he’ll be a great signing for Neil Lennon, he’s got that bit of quality in the final third. He’ll be a valuable asset for Celtic no doubt about that.
Neil Lennon’s good at that. He’s good at putting players in that maybe lost their way a little bit, showed some promise and then just lost their way, and then Neil’s great at bringing them in for Celtic and giving them confidence.”
Why Hartson is right with his assessment?
The winger joined the Saints in the summer of 2018, and he made 16 appearances in the Premier League last season. Manager Hasenhüttl probably felt that the Norwegian wasn’t good enough to thrive in the English top-flight and allowed him to leave on loan. Elyounoussi though has a terrific record for Basel, and in the 2017-18 campaign, he managed 13 goals and 17 assists in all competitions.
Moreover, the Norwegian international proved his worth in the Champions League as well that season as he grabbed two assists and two goals in 8 appearances. Hartson is spot on that Elyounoussi does have the quality and all he needs is a little bit of confidence to showcase his worth.
We think that once he settles in at Parkhead, the 25-year-old can be a game-changer for the Bhoys. Elyounoussi is a hard worker off the ball, and he will often give his all when he is on the pitch. On the ball, he has got quick feet, and his pace could trouble a lot of defenders.
However, what really stands out is his ability to make the right decision in the final third. Elyounoussi consistently contributed with goals and assists while playing for Basel and there is no doubt to us that he will come good for Celtic once he gets used to his new team-mates and playing style of the Hoops.
