Celtic look set to make some changes from their regular starting line-up when they take on Partick Thistle in the Betfred Cup quarter-final on Wednesday night.
It would expecting too much of players to play every game in what has been a busy month for Celtic. With more big games on the horizon, Neil Lennon could give some squad players a rare start against the Championship side.
One such player who deserves to start the game is Jonny Hayes. Hayes has not started a game for the Hoops this season, but he deserves too after some excellent cameo performances.
The first of those was the 2-0 win over Rangers at Ibrox. He scored the Hoops’ second after a fine move involving Olivier Ntcham and Odsonne Edouard.
Solid in Europa League clash
He was arguably even better in the 1-1 draw with Rennes in the Europa League. Hayes replaced the injured Boli Bolingoli, and was solid in both defence and attack.
Therefore, Hayes’ recent performances should be rewarded with a start against Partick. It will be interesting to see where Neil Lennon decides to play him should he start.
A chance in attack?
Perhaps instead of at left-back, he could play him on the left wing instead. That would give Hayes the chance to display the attacking qualities that he showed on a regular basis at Aberdeen.
Hayes might not have featured that often for the Hoops this season. However, he has featured in some big games this season for Celtic.
Celtic must make use of their squad in the next few months, as they try to juggle fixtures both domestically and in Europe.
Therefore, Hayes should be given the chance to impress from the start against Partick Thistle. Should he play well, he could keep his place in the side for Saturday’s game against Hibs.
This is a big chance for Hayes to show that he should start more often for the Hoops. It is up to him to take that chance.
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