Former Celtic star and pundit Chris Sutton has defended new Hoops left-back Boli Bolingoli after criticism of his initial performances for the club this summer, writing in his weekly Daily Record column.
The Belgian has had a few shaky moments at the start of his Celtic Park career. The decision from Neil Lennon to bench him against CFR Cluj also dented his credibility.
However, he’s been far more solid over the last few matches and is beginning to settle into his role on the left flank.
Sutton thinks some of the criticism sent his way has been unfair and reckons he has the attributes to be a success in Glasgow.
Writing in his Daily Record column, the pundit explained: “Some of the criticism of Bolingoli has been unfair.
“He had a couple of ropey games but has shown signs of finding his feet. The finger was pointed at the penalty on Thursday night in Stockholm but I thought he was unfortunate.
“I think he will come good, he’s quick, athletic and dangerous going forward. He needs to be more secure at the back but it could come.”
Will Bolingoli remain first-choice?
Sutton’s take on Bolingoli seems like the correct one for now. There’s every chance he develops into an effective attacking full-back at Celtic Park.
However, there are reports that a deal to sign Greg Taylor from Kilmarnock is imminent (BBC Scotland). It looks like a battle could be on the cards to be the first-choice left-back in Neil Lennon’s team.
Bolingoli has the chance, with a big performance against Rangers at Ibrox, to cement his place in the team and show everyone why he deserves an extended opportunity in the position.
Can he raise his game in the biggest match of his short Celtic career?
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