Jonny Hayes’ breakthrough performance came tonight in a stunning show against Valencia at the Mestalla, despite losing 3-0 on aggregate.
Perhaps you might think the word “stunning” is a tad exaggerative. But just put this performance into some real context.
Hayes was operating in his first ever proper European match post-qualifiers. He was operating a full left-side of the pitch against a top-half La Liga outfit. Even more impressive is the fact that this is a country that Celtic have never won in competitively.
Yet, with Emilio Izaguirre dropped and Kieran Tierney not ready until Sunday, Hayes was given the role.
And what a display. He was constantly at both ends of the pitch carrying out his defensive duties before bombing down the left and looking to whip crosses into the penalty area.
Some of his crossing tonight was terrific, but it was his link-up play with the likes of Callum McGregor and Ryan Christie that was right up there. He was also getting into some positive areas in the box and came close to opening the scoring with an effort in the first 45 through good positioning.
Big decision for Rodgers
So Rodgers now has a massive decision on his hands.
Tierney is apparently ready to return on Sunday. That’s all well and good, and the quicker he returns the better for our productivity. But Rodgers really must find a place for Hayes in the team after tonight’s performance.
Scott Sinclair was a surprise omission from the starting XI tonight. His recent poor form was enough for Rodgers to finally wield the axe on him.
Hayes is fully deserving of that spot when Motherwell roll up at Parkhead on Sunday. The Steelmen have one of the most youthful and energetic midfields in the Premiership. Celtic, therefore, need to match that energy, and Hayes has it in abundance.
After coming back from a horrific leg break last season, Hayes is finally getting the game-time his performances deserve. He’s proving so many supporters wrong about the impact he could have here and is starting to look like the player that thrived for Aberdeen under Derek McInnes.
Dropping him on Sunday isn’t an option. Here’s hoping that Rodgers continues to back the Hayes renaissance this weekend.
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