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Celtic must persevere with new role for James Forrest

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Celtic boss Neil Lennon found a winning formula in the recent 2-0 victory over Hibernian. With the game locked in a stalemate, he moved James Forrest from the wing, into the middle of the park.

The move paid off, as Forrest curled home the opening goal and the Hoops were on their way to victory. Now that Lennon has found this formula, he must stick with it going forward, starting with Saturday’s match against Aberdeen.

(photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)

Whilst Forrest has played on the wing for most of his time at Celtic, he can be just as deadly driving at teams from the middle of the part.

Ideal Rogic replacement

(Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

With Tom Rogic still out injured, Forrest is the ideal replacement for him as the player who takes the ball and runs at teams.

Whilst some supporters might not agree with shifting Forrest from his natural position, there are replacements available.

(Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

Replacements are available

Either Timothy Weah or Oliver Burke are more than capable of playing on the wing. That frees Forrest up to take up his new role going forward.

Should Lennon decide to keep Forrest on the wing, it would be the first real sign that he is making a difference as interim Hoops manager.

Forrest is a player Lennon knows very well. He gave him his first sustained run in the Hoops team back in 2011. He will be well aware of his limitations. If Lennon believes Forrest can thrive in this new position, it is a decision worth taking.