‘It wouldn’t surprise’: Celtic told 32-year-old could earn first start of season v St Mirren

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John Hartson has backed James Forrest to start for Celtic against St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday night.

After dropping points against Hibernian on Saturday, Brendan Rodgers will be expecting a response from his Celtic players, who still hold a five-point lead over Rangers in the table.

The issue with the performance at Easter Road was the fact that the players looked leggy after an energy-sapping 2-2 draw against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League just days earlier.

Many felt that changes should have been made for that game, but it wasn’t meant to be, as Hartson now thinks James Forrest could come into the XI for Luis Palma tonight, as he told Go Radio. 

The Bhoys legend has been impressed by what the 32-year-old has showcased from the bench this term, but he feels rotation is now on the cards.

After hosting third-placed St Mirren tonight, the games will continue to come in thick and fast for Celtic, with an early Saturday kick-off against Ross County followed by a trip to Spain to take on Atletico Madrid next week.

James Forrest to start v St Mirren?

“I don’t think he has let anybody down when he has come on,” said Hartson. “James has been at the club, he has had his testimonial, over 100 goals and 100 assists.

“This boy has been a serious player for Celtic. When he comes on, predominately, he makes a bit of an impact in the game. He plays on that right-hand side. Generally beats the fullback. He gets crosses in. Attempts on goal.

“And it wouldn’t surprise me if he started tomorrow night instead of Palma. James deserves his opportunity. Palma was quiet at the weekend.”

James Forrest and Luis Palma

Celtic’s legendary wideman is yet to start a league game this season, but when he has been handed chances from the bench, he hasn’t let the team down.

Against Hearts recently, James McFadden felt that Forrest’s performances were so impressive that he was providing Rodgers with a selection headache.

Well, that might be rewarded now, with Palma, who arrived this summer, looking impressive during the early stages of his Celtic career.

But those fresh legs are needed if Celtic are to register another three points tonight.