Celtic might be on a mission to grab ‘nine-in-a-row’, but the resurgence of Rangers has restored the age-old rivalry of Scottish football. The Gers, a galvanised force under Steven Gerrard, have showcased significant improvement in the past few months. In contrast, the Hoops, having recorded a historic treble ‘treble’, are maintaining their mojo under Neil Lennon.
Both the teams have done significant transfer business during summer, and the majority of new signings have slotted in well in their respective roles. While the supergiants of Scotland are already identifying potential targets for the January window, former Celtic centre-forward Craig Beattie has a suggestion for these two prestigious outfits regarding winter inclusions.
“Both need to strengthen, if I’m being honest. Rangers need to strengthen in terms of numbers because if something was to happen to Morelos then you’re relying on Defoe to play all the matches but Celtic really need to strengthen if something was to happen Edouard. One or possibly two strikers.”
Stated Beattle (as quoted by the Express) highlighting the necessity of attacking reinforcements.
Why Celtic Would Struggle Without Edouard
Odsonne Edouard is in blistering form and has already fired in and laid on 12 times each in 24 outings across all competitions. The former PSG prodigy has grown into one of the most prolific striking sensations and therefore, is drawing the interest from Europe’s big leagues.
The Bhoys, meanwhile, have Leigh Griffiths and Vakoun Issouf Bayo as the understudy to the on-fire Frenchman, but the duo lacks the threat Edouard is posing while spearheading the attack. Griffiths is seemingly struggling to get over the off-field problems that forced him to take a sabbatical last season whereas Bayo, despite the glimpses of his quality, has failed to impress enough to claim a starting role.
Edouard not only finds the net but also offers high work ethics to play a part in the build-ups. His all-round ability is unparalleled, and Celtic must aim to bring in someone with similar attributes to retain their supremacy in the attacking third.
Why Rangers Would Struggle Without Morelos
Alfredo Morelos has emerged as the brightest Premiership prospect over the past couple of campaigns. The 22-goal forward has earned the maiden international call-up during his time at Ibrox and matured enough as a ‘number 9’ while leading the frontline.
While Gerrard has rotated the Colombian with veteran Jermain Defoe on several occasions, an injury to the 23-year-old would put the pressure on the Englishman to deliver all alone. At 37, it would be strenuous for Defoe to perform twice a weak and the busy schedule around Christmas and the new year’s eve might derail the Bears’ campaign due to the absence of an able alternative.
It is indeed challenging to lure in big names in winter, but the charisma of Steven Gerrard might see Rangers securing surprise signings similar to the summer window.
