Celtic defender Hatem Abd Elhamed: Competition is healthy

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The squad rotation policy from Neil Lennon this season has most certainly seen plenty of change at right-back.

Hatem Abd Elhamed remains the first choice for the Hoops. However, despite that, he hasn’t started any of the last three Premiership matches. Lenny has, instead, used him in both Europa League games and allowed him to sit out domestically in recent times.

Elhamed didn’t start against Kilmarnock, Hibernian, or Livingston respectively. Instead, that chance was given to Moritz Bauer, who has also looked impressive when given the chance. It shows the depth Celtic now have in what was a problem position just a few months ago.

But what does Elhamed think of being dropped so often? It clearly doesn’t bother him too much. Speaking in the Daily Record, the Israeli wasn’t in the mood to cry about it.

“Competition in the squad is very important. It gives you more motivation to play and show your best at all times.

“Moritz is a good player and a good guy. It is good to have a strong squad. Every player wants to play all the time but you know that it’s not always possible.

“I need to take it in the right way if I don’t play and then show a good attitude when I get back in.”

Elhamed still clearly the first-choice

The rotation is by no means a negative for either Elhamed or Bauer. Both men have been incredibly impressive so far, and continue to deserve the game-time they’re getting.

In terms of consistency, it would perhaps be better playing one over the other. However, with so many games being played by Celtic, you can see why Lennon wants to constantly keep things fresh.

Celtic face Ross County on Saturday, and already it seems as though Elhamed will be a big doubt for it. He looks set to miss Israel’s game later on today against Latvia through illness (Daily Record).

Even if there’s the faintest sign of his illness when he returns, Bauer should get the nod against County. Celtic should steamroller the Staggies in any case, and we have some huge games coming up after Saturday.

Lazio visit Celtic Park next Thursday before the Hoops take the trip to Pittodrie. Certainly, these are matches that require Elhamed over Bauer.

The Israeli certainly knows his place at Parkhead. He knows rotation is necessary, and clearly doesn’t view it as a negative. It’s fair to say he knows he’ll need to get used to it with such a hectic winter schedule ahead.