Chris Sutton has surprisingly admitted that he hasn’t been impressed with Celtic winger Mohamed Elyounoussi this season.
Moi has had a fine individual campaign in Glasgow despite a season of difficulty all-round. He’s managed to net an impressive 16 goals and managed six assists in all competitions (Transfermarkt).
His form this term has led to plenty of Celtic fans wanting him signed up permanently next season as he gets set to return to parent club Southampton in the summer. He reminded everyone of his ability with a brace in Saturday’s 6-0 routing of Livingston.
Yet as Celtic fans get excited over what Moi could produce at Ibrox, Sutton appears to have an alternative view on the winger. Speaking on the Record Celtic podcast, he believes a lack of consistency has plagued his season:
“With Elyounoussi I think he’s flattered to deceive at times. His goal tally for club and country surprises me a little bit, but he hasn’t been consistent enough and I think he’s been a disappointment if I’m honest.
“Celtic getting him back was a big deal. I was really excited about that link-up between Elyounoussi and Edouard at the start of the season because in the previous season there were signs in patches that their understanding was really exceptional.
“But we haven’t seen it enough, and that’s why Celtic have languished behind in the league. But these two players have the opportunity, as all the Celtic players do at the weekend, to finish the season on some sort of high.”
Chris Sutton highlights Mohamed Elyounoussi off-days, but goal tally can’t be dismissed
I don’t personally think any criticism can be labelled at Elyounoussi this year whatsoever. Even during the times we were struggling under Neil Lennon, he was still providing in the final third.
He bagged important goals against the likes of Lille in the Europa League and Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup semi-final when we were struggling. Not to mention he was one of the only players who’s returned in 2021 in good form.
You can’t just dismiss Elyounoussi’s stats this season. They’ve been a huge part in making sure this year hasn’t been even more embarrassing. For example, had it not been for his contribution in the last Glasgow Derby, we’d have walked out with another defeat.
There are plenty of others in this Celtic squad who have underperformed more than the on-loan Norwegian. Given he’s one of the ones who has been raising the standards in 2021, you can see why there’s a clamour to sign him.
Of course, it remains to be seen whether the Hoops can pull it off. Should he prove to be the difference-maker in this Sunday’s Scottish Cup trip to Ibrox, it’ll do his reputation with the likes of Sutton no harm at all.
But to say he’s flattered to deceive is a touch harsh. Elyounoussi has provided the goals and assists we’d have wanted from him this season. It’s certain other players who haven’t been doing their bit.
In other news, a French youngster “loved” his recent Celtic trial; took club gear home with him.
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