Since Jonny Hayes signed for Celtic in the summer of 2017, he has mostly been a squad player for the Hoops. That is different from his time at Aberdeen, where he was a first-team mainstay.
However, it is far more difficult to break into the Celtic side than it is to break into the Aberdeen side. Hayes has been involved in some big games for the Hoops though. He started in last season’s Scottish Cup semi-final and the final itself.
This season he has found it difficult to get much first-team action, but in only his second appearance of the season he scored the second goal in the Hoops’ memorable 2-0 win over Rangers.
Despite his lack of playing time, Hayes enjoys being at Celtic.
“Enjoyable”
“Even if you’re nor playing – and I know I’ve not been playing since the Dunfermline game – the training’s enjoyable” he said, as reported by the Celtic View (Volume 55, issue 09, page 09).
“The way I look at it, you’re still contracted to be a footballer, and it’s the best job in the world, whether you’re playing or not.”
Professional attitude is a credit to the player
Hayes’ professionalism is a credit to the player. Many players in his situation could have become frustrated at their lack of playing time.
That hasn’t been the case with Hayes though. He seems content with how his time at Celtic is currently going.
The goal he scored against Rangers was a tribute to the professionalism he has showed in his time at the club. Even though he hasn’t often played this season, he was able to get up to speed with the game quickly. He started and finish the move which led to a goal.
That piece of play deserves plenty of applause. Hayes is an example to players, don’t get upset and your time for first-team action will eventually come.
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