Celtic’s current form must be a worrying sign in their bid to conquer the league glory nine times in a row. But the season is still in its early days, and Neil Lennon has ample time to rotate his options to figure out the best possible lineup. He has often promoted the youth to prove their potential and Lee O’Connor, the summer recruit from Manchester United, is next in line after impressing for the reserves.
The 19-year-old centre-back has now vowed to work harder and break into the Hoops’ senior set-up in the near future.
“At the moment, I’m just looking to get a run of games and show them why they’ve got me there. Hopefully, the coaching staff will see and next pre-season, I can show the first-team manager that I’m capable enough to make the step.”
Early Career And The Development
The teenager was most recently registered to the first-team squad for the Red Devil’s Champions League encounter against Barcelona. He progressed through the various age ranks at United and proved his versatility across the backline.
O’Connor made 23 appearances for their U23s last season and made an impact while featuring as a fullback despite his preference of operating centrally. However, his three-year stint in England came to an end when Celtic made their move and roped the youngster in late in the window.
Should He Be Promoted To The Senior Set-up?
The Bhoys are well equipped at the back following the arrival of Christopher Jullien and Hatem Abd Elhamed. Kristoffer Ajer and Nir Bitton have shown resilience in the heart of the backline, and therefore, the long-standing injury of Jozo Simunovic has not made any adverse impact on the defensive third.
Lennon has already handed Jeremie Frimpong a taste of the first-team action against Partick Thistle in the Scottish League Cup quarter-finals. Frimpong, too, completed a summer move from Manchester City and the 18-year-old Dutch youth international is already making significant strides through the Hoops’ academy ranks.
O’Connor, meanwhile, should stay patient and keep performing for the reserves. Celtic are hailed for nurturing the young talents in the right way, and the Irishman would be having his chances as well once he settles down in the new surroundings and exhibits the excellence that earned him plaudits at Manchester United.
