Celtic’s unexpected loan deal for Mohamed Elyounoussi that was confirmed on Friday night has got fans wondering if the player will make his debut against Rangers on Sunday.
It would not be a shock to see him involved at some point. After all, players that were reportedly signed for £16 million should be given a chance.
However, that does not mean that he should start the game. Elyounoussi prominently plays on the left-wing. That position is currently occupied by Mikey Johnston. Johnston should keep his place in the Hoops starting line-up for the trip to Ibrox.
Been in excellent form
The Celtic starlet has been in excellent form so far this season. Arguably his best performance of the season so far came in the recent 4-1 win over AIK.
His goal, just after AIK had equalised in the game, was a superb solo effort that owed plenty to his will to win.
Johnston will also be keen to make up for his last two performances at Ibrox. He was played out of position in both games. That meant that he couldn’t influence the game the way he would have liked.
Should be given chance to make up for disappointments
He deserves to have the chance to make up for those previous visits to the home of Celtic’s biggest rivals. Even Johnston should start the game, that does not mean that Elyounoussi should not be involved at some stage.
It would make sense for the player to start the game on the bench. Perhaps he can come on and be a game-changing substitute in the second-half.
However, Johnston should be given the nod to start against Rangers. He has already shown so far this season that he is in good form. Therefore, it makes sense for Neil Lennon to start Johnston in the game.
Neil Lennon has made some unexpected team selections in both his spells as Hoops boss, so Elyounoussi may get a start. But Johnston is the player who should be starting for Celtic on the left-wing at Ibrox.
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