It’s a fresh start for Celtic this term after months of catastrophe and a few of the Hoops’ forgotten names might resurrect their career at Parkhead if the pre-season goes well ahead of the upcoming Champions League qualifiers. Although it has not worked out so far for Vakoun Issouf Bayo, Toulouse’s decision of not making his loan move permanent (as claimed by the Daily Record) might have just handed the Ivorian a lifeline to stake a claim in the manager’s plans.
While the game time was hard to come by under Neil Lennon, the 24-year-old ‘number 9’ was loaned out to the Ligue 2 side last summer. He had an impressive stint with 13 goals and 4 assists in 36 appearances across competitions, however, Les Violets suffered a controversial playoff defeat against Nantes despite the centre-forward finding the net in the return leg fixture.
Toulouse have converted Brecht Dejaegere’s move into a permanent one, but the financial constraints must have refrained them from doing so for the Ivory Coast international. This might turn out to be a blessing in disguise for the Hoops who are expecting a shake-up in the attacking third amid the exit rumours of Leigh Griffiths and Odsonne Edouard.
A difficult season at Celtic led to Albian Ajeti’s omission from Switzerland’s Euro 2020 squad and the former Basel star must also be aiming for a fresh start under a new gaffer. Bayo had only 17 appearances before leaving for the French side, but he must be more confident now of flourishing for the Glasgow giants.
Why Bayo Might Still Resurrect His Celtic Career
Postecoglou has accepted a ‘thankless’ job where he will have little time to script a revival. Rangers have already snatched the baton and their progress under Steven Gerrard deserves massive plaudits. The fans would demand immediate success even if the likes of Kristoffer Ajer, Ryan Christie, Griffiths and Edouard part ways and it is to be seen now how quickly the Aussie boss adjusts to the demands of the Scottish game.
The former Socceroos chief is known for long-term projects. He loves to utilize the tools he has already got and promote the academy prospects towards an exciting brand of football. Those who have been outcasts during Lennon’s regime would get one more opportunity to prove their worth and Bayo’s emergence, therefore, should save a few million if he convinces Postecoglou on the training ground.
