When it comes to new signings at Celtic this summer, Marian Shved could prove himself to be just as useful as one.

Shved has been spending the campaign on loan with Belgian side KV Mechelen. It’s been a rollercoaster of a campaign for him. From being absolutely mauled by his manager for a lack of attitude, to being considered for a permanent transfer. It’s clear he’s managed to finally turn his career around, and the stats show it.

When Shved arrived in Belgium, make an impact he did not. The Ukrainian youngster made three substitute appearances in his first 15 matches. It was a shocking return from a loan player who had been sent for the sole purpose to get minutes. In his last 15 matches, however, Shved has featured in 12 of them and has made himself a regular starter too.

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He’s now managed a grand total of seven direct goal contributions in 17 matches with Mechelen [Transfermarkt]. Proving himself to be efficient on either flank, it’s clear he has a host of attributes.

Comments have surfaced today of Shved stating that he doesn’t know where his future lies [Daily Record]. He did, however, hint he was open to returning to Celtic.

Shved represents something we don’t necessarily have down the flanks. He has pace, directness, and a killer ball to boot. Now that he finally seems to have turned his attitude around, it’s the ideal time to bring him back.

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A fresh Celtic start for Marian Shved? Exactly what he needs

Celtic are on the cusp of managerial change. Therefore, it goes without saying that a new start will be available for everyone. Nobody needs that more than Shved. Since signing in January 2019 after Brendan Rodgers admitted he didn’t need him [The Scotsman], he’s only been given three Celtic appearances. He’s actually scored for the club too – netting against Nomme Kalju in the 2019/20 Champions League qualifiers.

The fact he can operate in a position that’s been a major issue for us – right-wing, is also a boost. James Forrest has been injured for much of the season, and Celtic have suffered for not having a replacement. Ryan Christie has often had to play there despite it not being his natural position. Had Shved developed the way we all would’ve hoped over the last two years, this could’ve been his big opportunity.

Marian Shved celebrates a goal on loan

Marian Shved celebrates a goal on loan (Photo by JASPER JACOBS/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

But given he’s back on track mentally and physically, it’s time to bring him back. Time to see what he’s got to offer the new manager. Time to see whether he’s developed as much as his form suggests.

If he proves to be a success, this covers one of Celtic’s main areas of weakness on the right flank. He could even be a Mohamed Elyounoussi replacement on the left flank too, if he proves he’s adaptable.

Regardless, that’s for later. For now, the Celtic supporters are generally all for the former Karpaty Lviv star returning to Glasgow. Here’s how fans have reacted to the prospect of him coming back:

 

In other news, Celtic-bound Liam Shaw has had to take a disappointing step in order to get some minutes.

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