Kenny Dalglish noted that Scotland managed just one goal in three matches at the European Championships – scored by Callum McGregor – yet reckons that Steve Clarke was right to leave to Calmac’s Celtic teammate from the squad – even though he was probably the most natural goalscorer available to the Scotland manager.
Griffiths has had better luck with Ange Postecoglou with the recently arrived Celtic manager opting to renew the striker’s contract for another year, although having made his position on what exactly is going to be expected of Griffiths abundantly clear.
Writing in his Sunday Post column the former Celtic, Liverpool and Scotland legend has been outlining his won’t thoughts on Postecoglou decision to retain Griffiths.
“I’d imagine it must have been a difficult call for the new Parkhead manager to make, even if the deal is on vastly-reduced terms, and heavily incentive-based,” King Kenny stated. “The ball is very much now in Leigh’s court, and it’s up to him to make the most of this opportunity.
“He should probably still be able to claim the main striker role this season, and it shouldn’t be beyond him to be a proper asset to the team and bang in the goals. His ability to put the ball in the back of the net has never been in doubt.
“It’s other stuff that led to his downfall last season, stuff that was well-documented.
“I’m sure Ange would have spoken to many people – such as coaches John Kennedy and Gavin Strachan – about Leigh, and watched over lots of video footage before deciding to give the go-ahead to the new contract.
“The archives would have been full of Leigh’s goals, and there is no doubt his stats are impressive since he was signed for Celtic eight years ago by Neil Lennon for around £1-million from Wolves.
“But, as every player knows, you can’t live on past successes. It’s about the here and now,” Dalglish noted.
