Opinion

Lennon tactical tweak isn’t getting best out of Celtic duo

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic interim manager Neil Lennon made a tactical tweak during the recent 0-0 draw against Hibernian. It was a tweak he has done in most games since taking over as manager. That is, switching the starting position of James Forrest and Jonny Hayes.

The pair usually switch wings in the first-half of the game, and this pattern continued against the Easter Road side.

Move didn’t pay off

(Photo by Vagelis Georgariou/Action Plus via Getty Images)

Unfortunately, the move didn’t really pay off, as both players were kept quiet for most of the game. Hayes was eventually replaced by Scott Sinclair.

The move has worked in the past, such as in the 3-0 win over Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup semi-final.

(Photo by Vagelis Georgariou/Action Plus via Getty Images)

But it didn’t against Aberdeen, and that is now three 0-0 draws Lennon has presided over since he took over from Brendan Rodgers.

Too many goalless draws

(Photo by Vagelis Georgariou/Action Plus via Getty Images)

That is not a good record, and perhaps it is a sign that the switching wings experiment should be brought to an end.

It would do both players good if they were kept to their natural position. This is particularly true of Forrest, who has had a terrific season for the Hoops playing on the right wing.

It is easy to understand why Lennon wanted to make some tweaks to the side. He will want to put his imprint on the team.

Perhaps it is time for this tweak to be consigned to history though, and the Hoops can go back to basics.