With the new season almost upon us some Celtic supporters are itching to see new faces being added to the squad and that is understandable, but there is plenty of time to do so, no rush needed.

But what areas are in need of adding to or even upgrading? Well it’s quite clear it’s the backline that’s in need of fresh faces.

We’ve already added Yang Hyun- Jun and Marco Tilio to the wide areas to compensate the loss of Jota. Not to mention we’re already well covered in that department with Sead Hakšabanović, Daizen Maeda, Liel Abada and James Forrest also still present.

Celtic v Hibernian – James Forrest celebrates scoring his sides fourth goal, his third to complete his hat-trick during the cinch Premiership match at Celtic Park, Saturday October 15, 2022. Photo Steve Welsh

The striking positions are occupied by Kyogo and Oh. While in the middle we have signed Odin Thiago Holm to add to Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, Matt O’Riley, David Turnbull, Tomoki Iwata, and rumours are that South Korean Kwon Hyeok- kyu will soon be arriving to further bolster the numbers.

That just leaves the focus on the defence and with Alistair Johnston out for a few weeks right back should be priority with doubts over back-up Tony Ralston’s ability and fitness. Central defence should also be looked at with CCV still fighting back to fitness which just leaves Carl Starfelt, Stephen Welsh and Yuki Kobayashi as the remaining fit trio.

Cameron Carter-Vickers of Celtic embraces Joe Hart after the team’s victory in the Scottish Cup Semi Final match between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden Park on April 30, 2023 . (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

A solid centre back or two should be the priority. Not just for cover at the present, but for the long term and that can only be a good thing. A club such as ours should have quality back up in every area, especially with us competing in so many competitions.

At left back we are well covered, Greg Taylor is reliable and superb at his job while Alexandro Bernabei is also there. I know doubts remain over the Argentine’s ability, but I think he’ll surprise a few folk this season.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

HUGE SAVINGS IN THE CELTIC STAR’S SUMMER SALE!

The Celtic Star’s Father’s Day Promotion has been so successful, with hundreds of books at great prices being posted to Celtic fans all over the world, that we’ve decided to continue with the sale until the end of July. We’ve reduced all six books currently available from their usual retail price of £20 and prices are as low as £6 (see below).

All books are high quality hardback, with some signed by the author. And it’s also worth noting that you only pay postage on one book, so it’s free for the second, third and so on. ORDER HERE or click on The Celtic Star image above…this is how it feels to be Celtic!