Celtic are in a tight spot and will need to show resilience to recover from their latest setback against Kilmarnock last weekend.
There is despondency among the ranks of supporters following a disappointing run of performances, even if results had papered over the cracks to some extent leading up to their latest instance of dropped points.
Brendan Rodgers’ side have gone their last ten games unbeaten; however, anyone keeping an eye will be able to identify that there is a distinct lack of identity present among his group, who seem to be at odds with his tactical framework.
In the past, the former Liverpool manager had the right blend of players to implement control within his possession-based system, yet this time around, Rodgers is working with a large core that functioned in a totally different manner under Ange Postecoglou.
Kyogo Furuhashi opened the scoring against Kilmarnock inside 32 minutes with a finely-placed header. On the flip side, the Japanese striker has cut a forlorn figure on the shoulder this term, leading to a change in his role over recent weeks amid the introduction of Adam Idah.
You could count on one hand how many players have improved under Rodgers’ stewardship, with Liam Scales and Matt O’Riley likely to be the only two serious candidates.
Frank McAvennie lays into Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley
Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie has vented his frustration on several issues surrounding the Bhoys’ insipid performances, and Danish playmaker O’Riley is the latest to feel the wrath of the 64-year-old.
McAvennie explained on PLZ Soccer: “Matt O’Riley’s not kicked a ball for the last couple of weeks. He’s a wonderful talent, but sometimes I think Matt wants to play centre-forward.
“You’re a midfield player. Get back in, and help your team because sometimes when we lose the ball there’s nobody at the first line of defence.
“There should be somebody in there sitting and maybe Matt can do that wee bit more.”
Matt O’Riley will find his best form once again for Celtic
Sure, O’Riley hasn’t been as influential in the last few games, though he is far from the only culprit in an unsatisfactory collective effort from Celtic since the turn of the year.
The frustration at his performance level comes from the fact he is capable of brilliance, evidenced by his ten goals and 12 assists in 34 appearances this campaign [Transfermarkt].
Born in London, the 23-year-old has also laid on 55 chances for his teammates in the Scottish Premiership, making him a key creative presence for Rodgers, even when he isn’t at full tilt [Fotmob].
Form is temporary, class is permanent, and O’Riley will be a key player for Celtic during the season run-in once he rediscovers his mojo.
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