Jonny Hayes’ appearances at Celtic have certainly never been frequent, but that doesn’t seem to bother the Irishman.
The former Aberdeen winger has struggled to make the left-wing spot his own since arriving in the summer of 2017. However, he’s still proved to be a valuable addition with his versatility. Both Brendan Rodgers and Neil Lennon have featured him as left-back cover over the last 12 months or so.
It’s a situation that Hayes would undoubtedly like to improve if it could. But, at this stage of his career, just making an impact at Celtic and working hard for the club is all he can ask for.
Speaking to the Celtic View (Volume 55, Issue 06, Page 13), Hayes certainly isn’t grudging his spot on the bench.
“Obviously you’d rather play every minute, but I’ve always looked at it as, I have a contract, I’m getting paid to be here, so I might as well savour the experience, work hard and try to enjoy it all.
“You have to make the most of any situation. That’s always been my attitude, probably more so since I came to Celtic because I haven’t been playing as regularly as I had done in the previous 10 years of my career.
“There’s no point sulking in the corner because you’ll just get yourself down. You might as well come in with a spring in your step, a smile on your face and try to enjoy the process of working towards your goals.”
Hayes shows real appreciation of the realism that faces him
It’s not bashing Hayes to suggest he’ll never be a first-team regular at Celtic. He has a role at Parkhead as cover when needed. He’s a fine utility man for the Hoops, and that’s all he’ll ever be.
But the great thing is that Hayes understands that. He seems to know at his age that the chances of playing every week are low. Just look at the competition ahead of him in his two positions.
At left-mid you have Mikey Johnston, Mohamed Elyounoussi, Lewis Morgan, and Scott Sinclair for competition. All four are younger than Hayes. Then, at left-back, you have both Boli Bolingoli and Greg Taylor. Again, both men have their best years well ahead of them.
So it’s clear to see why Hayes isn’t a first choice and never will be at Celtic. But that still doesn’t mean he isn’t a key part of this Celtic squad. He has a job to do here, and he does it soundly.
Hayes has four appearances to his name this season. Last year he managed 22 outings in all competitions. It’s nothing stunning, but it shows he’s valued. And that seems to be enough for the player to feel satisfied.
In a way, it’s likely a manager’s dream. It’s a case of Hayes almost saying to Lennon “use me as you please”. He clearly just cherishes getting the chance to play for a club the size of Celtic. His attitude contains total 100% commitment to the cause here, and that kind of trait can’t be bought.
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