Hatem Elhamed’s position at Parkhead has always been a bit of a source of confusion.
Back in October after a run in the side, manager Neil Lennon stated that, ideally, Elhamed would be a centre-back. Yet, despite that, he’s often featured at right-back when he’s been fit (Daily Record).
There have been a few occasions when Elhamed has been chosen to be a part of the centre-back team. He also played there for Hapoel Be’er Sheva for the majority of his time in Israel.
Yet up until now, there had yet to be a definitive answer on his main position of strength from the player himself. But speaking in the Daily Record, Elhamed looked to try and set the record straight.
“That’s a point I really want to make clear. I am a defender who can play anywhere across the defence, even left-back or left central defence.
“When Celtic signed me the right-back was injured. I feel right back is my best position, that’s where I feel most comfortable.
“I have the go-ahead there to get the ball and break forward. I am able to read the game and attack. I am not waiting for the opposition to come to me.”
Worth taking into account in case crisis occurs
Elhamed’s versatility could be worth plenty to Neil Lennon in the coming months and years. He’s already shown that by being able to slot into centre-back when necessary.
However, there’s no denying that he was signed to initially be a right-back. With Mikael Lustig, Cristian Gamboa, and Jeremy Toljan all leaving the club in the summer, we needed a quality alternative in. Jeremie Frimpong wasn’t deemed to be that man when he signed, but Elhamed certainly was.
Interestingly, however, Celtic have been operating with a three at the back in recent weeks. The now famous 3-5-2 system Lennon has adopted has reaped rewards going forward. Yet, at the back, there have still been plenty of shaky moments.
Fortunately, Elhamed could be the man to come in and take the right-sided centre-back position for himself. He seems ready-made for it, and considering he’s naturally a right-sided player, it would still give him the freedom to get up and support the wing-back at times.
It’s also intriguing to hear Elhamed claim that he can play left-back if the situation demands it. With Greg Taylor, Boli Bolingoli, and Jonny Hayes available of course, we may not need the Israeli to slot in there anytime soon.
But there’s no denying that the Celtic man’s versatility could prove a useful tool in the future.
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