Why it makes sense for Celtic to play Jonny Hayes tonight

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One of the Celtic players who didn’t let anyone down on Sunday was left-winger Jonny Hayes.

Playing in his much more suited role high up the left, he was a bag of energy in the first 45 against Rangers. Granted, he sent some poor deliveries into the box from corner-kicks, but he was full of life.

His substitution at the break was probably for his own good given he was on a yellow card. You have to imagine that was pretty much Neil Lennon’s thinking heading into the second 45.

But Hayes should be returning to action tonight against St Mirren, only this time at left-back.

Lennon said a few days ago that he was looking to freshen up the team. That should hopefully see the likes of Oliver Burke and Timothy Weah take up roles in the final third. Therefore, Hayes likely won’t be considered for the left-wing slot.

And just as well too considering the developing situation at left-back. John Kennedy may have confirmed that Tierney’s injury wasn’t a bad one, but the signs aren’t great. Lennon has already touched on the fact he wants to give Tierney a break from football.

Tierney still needs to be managed

Therefore, he clearly believes there’s something with Tierney that needs to be managed. Considering he’s played 40 times for club and country this season, tiredness could finally be kicking in.

He had to come off late on against Rangers. And considering the importance of the game on Sunday, that’s not something Tierney would’ve entertained unless something was seriously bothering him.

So regardless of whether the pain that forced him off on Sunday is gone, Hayes should be thrown in for safety, and because he deserves another chance to impress.

It’s the perfect time for him to be given a run of games. The league has been wrapped up, and even though a Scottish Cup semi-final with Aberdeen is coming up this month, Hayes has always impressed against his former club.

Tierney clearly needs to be managed. Throwing him into an away game against relegation candidates fighting for their lives isn’t the best idea. Especially not when Hayes is sitting waiting to be unleashed.

What would you do this evening? Would you throw Hayes back in at left-back? Perhaps you would give Emilio Izaguirre a run-out instead? Let us know in the comments below.