‘Given Brendan Rodgers a problem’: James McFadden wowed by Celtic star who didn’t start v Hearts

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James McFadden was sure to sing the praises of James Forrest for his cameo from the bench after Celtic thrashed Hearts 4-1 at Tynecastle on Sunday.

Before the game, many expected a Celtic win, but you would have thought that things would have been tougher than they were.

But that’s the quality of Brendan Rodgers’ side and how they are now starting to motor following his return to Celtic this summer.

One player that James McFadden thinks has been ‘reinvigorated’ by Brendan Rodgers’ return is James Forrest, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.

Luis Palma, who assisted Matt O’Riley’s opening goal, started on one flank, whilst Daizen Maeda scored and started on the other.

But, according to James McFadden, he feels that a place is ‘up for grabs’ on the wings, as he gave James Forrest his flowers.

James Forrest cameo v Hearts

“I think James Forrest has come on and really made an impact on the game,” said McFadden.

“I think for Celtic, in general, the way they are set up. There is one spot that has yet to be grabbed by one player and it’s that wide area, whether it’s off the left or right.

“Luis Palma has the jersey, at the minute. But he hasn’t played a whole lot of games, so that’s what is up for grabs. I think James Forrest has come on and done really well. He has been that threat in-behind. Creating opportunities and probably been reinvigorated by the fact that Brendan Rodgers has come back to the club.

“It has given Rodgers a problem and something to think about with the performance of James Forrest since he has come on because I think he has been excellent.”

Another headache for Rodgers

This is the best type of headache for a manager to have and it seems as though these types of competitions are building all over the pitch.

Liam Scales started alongside Cameron Carter-Vickers at centre-back, with on-loan Liverpool star Nat Phillips on the bench.

There has already been debate about whether Liam Scales deserves to start, well, he kept his place and deservedly so.

Don’t forget the returning Maik Nawrocki, another player who is going to add depth to that centre-back spot.

So, it’s not only those at the heart of the defence fighting for places, but also those on the flanks.