Lee O’Connor sees his future as a right-back

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Celtic full-back Lee O’Connor has confirmed that he is a right-back as he was introduced to press after sealing his loan move to Partick Thistle.

The Republic of Ireland international has departed Parkhead for Firhill for the rest of the season, just five months after being signed by Neil Lennon.

O’Connor is yet to even make a matchday squad at Celtic but he should see far more game time in the next few months at the Championship side.

And he’s pretty sure those turnouts will come at right-back, judging by his latest comments.

“Yeah 100% (that’s my best position)”, he said in response to a question.

“That’s where I’ll end up so I look forward to getting a run of games there.

“I like getting forward. For Ireland I’ve played right-wing about 10 or 12 times but wherever the manager needs me I’m more than happy to play there.”

O’Connor will add to our good right-back options

Those above quotes are as clear as you’re likely to come across. O’Connor sees himself as a right-back and so do Celtic judging by his “that’s where I’ll end up” remark.

When O’Connor first signed for the club he said: “I’m a versatile player. I can play anywhere across the back four or midfield if needed.” (Official Celtic website)

It was perhaps those comments, and the signing of Jeremie Frimpong on the same day, that led many to believe he would be better suited in the middle.

Frimpong’s rise adds an interesting element to proceedings. O’Connor will be vying with a player of a similar age and history for a first-team spot at the club when he returns.

We’re pretty well covered for right-backs at present although Moritz Bauer is only on loan and Hatem Abd Elhamed has had plenty of injury worries.

That means there is scope for O’Connor to force his way into the reckoning next season. But first things first, he needs to get some game time with Thistle.