It was interesting to see that Boli Bolingoi was given the nod to start for Celtic in the recent 1-0 win over Hamilton, even though Greg Taylor was eligible to play in the game.
The move made sense, as Bolingoli played well for the Hoops. He was a constant threat on the left-wing. However, it is not a move that should be repeated when the Hoops take on Rennes in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Hoops may need to play with caution
In that game, Taylor should make his Celtic debut, replacing Bolingoli in the side. The Hoops will presumably want to play more cautiously in the game than they would normally.
That is why Taylor should get the nod. He is more defensive minded than Bolingoli will be if he plays. That is not meant as a criticism of Bolingoli. Indeed, if the game was at home, he should be given the start at left-back.
However, the Hoops might well be on the back foot for a majority of the game in Rennes. That means that the defence will have to be at its very best for the Hoops to get a result.
Manager has already made left-back changes
Therefore, Taylor should start the game. Interestingly, Neil Lennon already did make a change at left-back for one of Celtic’s games in Europe.
He played Callum McGregor at left-back against Cluj. Unfortunately, that move did not work out. However, now that Taylor is at the club there can be no concerns about making the change at left-back.
Celtic will want to get a positive result in Rennes to kickstart the Europa League campaign. It may be a gamble to give Taylor his Celtic debut in such a high-pressure game, but it is a gamble that is worth taking.
The battle between Taylor and Bolingoli could last all season, and it should see Taylor get the start against Rennes.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
