Damage is already done for Celtic this season across competitions ahead of hosting Kilmarnock this afternoon at Celtic Park. Rangers widened the gap further at the top of the standings with yet another crucial 2-1 win against Dundee United and the Hoops, still relying on Neil Lennon, showed great resilience and supremacy in a commanding a 2-0 victory.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their comprehensive win against Kilmarnock.
Conor Hazard: 7
The £4.5m paid for Vasilis Barkas seems to have gone down the drain for Celtic as the gaffer kept his faith on the academy prodigy between the sticks after an impressive midweek win against Lille. Unlike the European tie, the youngster had a comfortable outing and had little trouble in marking his Premiership debut with a cleansheet.
Kristoffer Ajer: 7
Started down the right-hand side of a ‘back three’ and enjoyed his time with overlapping runs with the ball in his feet. Combined well with his teammates in terms of attacking involvements, also performed his defensive duties whenever required.
Shane Duffy: 8
Much better display from the Brighton & Hove Albion loanee who was solid at the back and showed enough intent and commitment from the set-piece environments. Tested Danny Rogers in Killie goal with his headed attempt and eventually found the target with a thumping effort from Turnbull’s delivery.
Christopher Jullien: 7.5
Slowly regaining his fitness after a long injury layoff and dominated the defensive half with his aerial as well as physical presence. Played it well out from the back and looked menacing from set-pieces at the other end of the pitch.
Jeremie Frimpong: 7
Lively down the right-hand flank. Struggled physically on a few occasions but his twists and turns caused enough trouble in the visitors’ backline. Linked up well with Turnbull in the attacking third. Was taken off to be replaced by Ryan Christie midway through the second half.
Ismaila Soro: 7.5
A much-needed boost in the middle of the park. He is still far from matching prime Scott Brown but indeed a better alternative considering the Scotsman’s current form. Worked hard in the centre of the pitch and never allowed Kilmarnock to control the midfield game.
Callum McGregor: 8
Has not been at his best of late, but the versatile midfield ace controlled the show this afternoon with his passing, vision and directness.
Greg Taylor: 7.5
Enjoyed his time on the pitch from the left wingback role. Had a strong penalty call denied in the first half but played his part in Elyounoussi’s opener prior to the hour mark. Made way for Diego Laxalt late in the game.
David Turnbull: 8.5
Another inspiring display from the youngster who not only assisted Duffy to double the lead but also exhibited his attributes in creating chances and opening up space in Killie defence. Made way for Tom Rogic late in the game.
Mohamed Elyounoussi: 8
Kept on threatening from the left-hand flank with his swift movements, pace and power. Was rewarded for his hard work when a deflected effort broke the deadlock 12 minutes into the second half. Made way for Michael Johnston late in the game.
Odsonne Edouard: 6.5
Worked hard, tried to play his part in the build-ups but failed to find the net despite coming close on a few occasions. Tested the keeper, hit it off, also had his attempted blocked by the Killie backline. Made way for Klimala midway through the second half.
Celtic Subs vs Kilmarnock
Ryan Christie: 6.5
Enjoyed his time in the advanced areas of the pitch.
Patryk Klimala: 5.5
Was not much effective since coming on in place of Edouard.
Diego Laxalt: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Tom Rogic: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Michael Johnston: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
