Neil Lennon has to give Oliver Burke a run in his natural place for Celtic

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The discussion of Oliver Burke’s natural position has been a highly-debated one across the Celtic fan-base.

Since coming in under Brendan Rodgers, Burke has been trying to adapt to the lone-striker role. Granted, he’s done extremely well to make such a positive impact, but it’s clear over the last week where he’s most deadly.

Going forward, Burke has been a huge asset. He may only have four Celtic goals in 13 appearances, but the work he does in the final third is substantial. His pace gives him the ability to drag defenders out of position, but it’s clear he still isn’t a striker.

At both Tynecastle and Easter Road, we got a couple of glimpses of Burke at right-mid. Last Wednesday in Gorgie, he drifted out wide for the final 15 minutes or so to accommodate Odsonne Edouard.

On a couple of occasions, he darted beyond the Hearts full-back and got some deliveries into the area.

On Saturday, however, we got an even better view of him in his natural position. When Edouard was moved up top and James Forrest moved centrally, Burke thrived.

Stevenson couldn’t cope with Burke’s energy

Up against Hibs’ Lewis Stevenson, a decent defender in his own right, Burke caused the left-back a host of big problems. He darted beyond him on several occasions to create openings. Whilst no clear goal-scoring chances came from it, it was clear Burke looked more comfortable down the right.

Not once when Burke picks up possession in that area does he look like losing it. Whilst his end-product could do with some big improvements, he constantly beats his man to get into good areas.

Against Aberdeen on Sunday, it’s essential that Lennon starts playing Burke in his normal position. He’s likely to be up against the pacey Max Lowe, and Burke’s dynamism could be vital to getting the better of him and picking up the three points.

Added to that, this is the best move for the likes of Edouard and Forrest too. Considering Celtic are without a natural number 10, Forrest proved he’s made the best case for playing there after his goal against Hibs.

Lennon did try Edouard in that same position with Burke up top, but Eddy was extremely ineffective outside of the penalty area.

Hopefully the experiment that gave us our first win at Easter Road since 2014 is replicated once again. At the very least, here’s hoping Burke gets his shot down the right.