Celtic go in to this summer transfer window in a strong position. We have a very good squad, with most key players on long term contracts. So where can a potential new manager look to strengthen?
The first area that jumps out to me is the left back position. Greg Taylor has improved so much over the last couple of years and is a worthy full back at all levels for us. However, Bernabei has failed to impress me in any performance as Taylor’s deputy. He has given the ball away in dangerous areas and is poor in the air. It is still early days for the Argentine, who as well as adjusting to a new life in Scotland had the added difficulty of getting himself into bother with the authorities for drink driving. He may come good after settling in, but its a definite position we can add stronger cover at present.
The next area where we can add depth is at centre back. Carl Starfelt and Carter-Vickers are absolutely sensational as a partnership. Unfortunately, both were injured throughout the Champions League Group stage last season, so it’d be great to see them both competing at that level this time around. Beyond them, we have new Bhoy Kobayashi who was poor against theRangers but is largely unproven. Then there is the very underused Stephen Welsh, who seemingly has no future at Celtic if Iwata has been adopted as a make shift Centre half in his place. Although, a new manager may change that policy. Either way, it’s clear that there is a significant drop off from the main central defensive partnership and a top centre half could be excellent for us, particularly in giving us more versatility should we ever decide to go to a back three at certain times.
The final stand out position where we can develop is on the right wing. We have three great wingers in Jota, Maeda and Haksabanovic, yet all prefer to play off the left hand side. Therefore, having a proper right winger would add another layer of quality to this team, with Abada’s future up in the air, while James Forrest is a capable back up when required.
Those three positions are ones that I’d immediately address, before looking at other parts of the team. We have seemingly just agreed to sign a promising young Norwegian central midfielder in Odin Holms, so he adds to a wonderful array of talent in Iwata, O’Riley, Mooy, Turnbull and McGregor. If that deal falls through, then another midfielder could be useful as Mooy has been struggling with injury and speculation surrounds the future of Turnbull and O’Riley.
Elsewhere, an argument could be made for bringing a third striker into the club. Kyogo is the main man, with Oh providing a more physical option. The latter is often compared unfavourably to Giakoumakis but it’s too early to say. A third option would mean we have full cover at the top end of the pitch and could add goalscoring quality for the Champions League, which we lacked last time out.
Finally, if a Fraser Forster type goalkeeper became available that would be a bonus for European football. It is someone of his ilk that made the difference against Barcelona and Lazio in recent spells. Indeed, a keeper capable of making saves that he has no right to make could drag you through against stronger opposition. Joe Hart has been good, very steady and a good experienced leader to have at the club. But there is always room for improvement to reach the next level.
