Moritz Bauer looks like getting his chance for Celtic vs Rennes

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic vs Rennes is next up on Thursday night, and there will be at least one change made from the 4-0 routing of Livingston.

Jeremie Frimpong managed to win man-of-the-match for his display yesterday. He came so close to scoring his second goal for the Hoops, but was denied on a couple of occasions.

In an ideal world, we would be able to see what he’s got against Rennes on Thursday night. It would be good prep ahead of the Betfred Cup final against Rangers as it would’ve given us an indicator as to how he would perform against better opposition and in a more defensive mindset.

However, the fact that Frimpong is ineligible will ensure that he misses out (UEFA). In his place, however, will likely come Moritz Bauer, who is the only fit right-back remaining with Frimpong missing out.

Haven’t seen enough of Bauer

And it couldn’t come at a better time for the on-loan Stoke man too. He’s only started four games this season (Transfermarkt), but he could find himself playing a key part in helping us finish our European group as top dogs.

With so much fanfare over the performances of Frimpong, Bauer could do with this. A chance for him to finally put himself into the spotlight and prove how reliable he can be.

Celtic play Rennes, Ross County, and Hamilton before they face Rangers in the cup final. Both Bauer and Frimpong seem to be in an unofficial battle to try and become the first choice for that one. It’s likely that both will get chances to impress ahead of the December 9th showdown.

As it stands, you have to say that Frimpong appears to be the man most likely to face Steven Gerrard’s side. He now has some really impressive past appearances under his belt. Strong performances against the likes of Aberdeen, Hibernian, and Livingston shows he has what it takes to compete domestically in our league.

Therefore, that makes Thursday night all the more important for Bauer. If he can help see off Rennes and play a big part on a big night, it really helps his chances. In truth, it’s probably the only kind of game that could see him leap back ahead of Frimpong in the right-back race.

Having this level of competition for places is huge for Neil Lennon and Celtic. It brings out the best in everyone. Hopefully, that proves to be the case on Thursday night should Bauer get the expected call.