Celtic’s Hatem Abd Elhamed states he can also play left-back

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If Celtic are ever in need of desperate left-back cover, it looks as though they could turn to Hatem Abd Elhamed.

The Israeli has stated that he featured for a full half down the left-flank for his country last week. Elhamed played in the position for 45 minutes of the 3-2 defeat to Slovenia.

Celtic are currently stocked nicely at left-back, of course. Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo currently holds the position, with Greg Taylor available in reserve. A battle between the pair for the spot is sure to break out soon.

But Elhamed has stated in the Scottish Sun that if push comes to shove, he can play anywhere across the back-line.

“I also played 45 minutes at left-back against Slovenia, as well as playing in the middle. So I feel I’m capable of playing anywhere in defence.

“It doesn’t matter to me whether it is right-back, left-back or central defence. I’m confident I can make the right decisions regardless of what position I play in.

“I felt I did well for the national team and it has been a good start so far for Celtic. I am happy to switch positions if required.”

Is Elhamed our jack of all trades?

This is an interesting reveal from the right-back, but it’s not overly-surprising. He was also playing as a left-sided centre-back for his country too. It’s no real surprise that he’s comefortable down either flank.

Even against Rangers when he was pushed into centre-back, Elhamed still looked confident on the ball down the left, and also came over to help Boli Bolingoli on several occasions at Ibrox.

Does this mean we’ll likely see him in the position anytime soon? No. Boli and Taylor will do for now. Jonny Hayes, meanwhile, is always there in case of emergencies.

But even so it’s a nice option to have if anything really does go too pear-shaped with injuries. He’s determined to well at Celtic, and it’s clear he’s also willing to play anywhere across the defence to make his spell here successful.

Even so, however, don’t expect any positional change for the Israeli. But it’s reassuring for Celtic fans to know that he’s confident with his weaker foot.

It just goes to make Elhamed look even more impressive as he continues his sensational start to life at Parkhead. And, for Neil Lennon, it’s yet another tool to keep in mind.