Celtic’s record signing Odsonne Edouard scored his first Celtic goal in over a month against Kilmarnock.
His last goal came against RB Leipzig in the Europa League. Before that, it was a brace against Hearts in a 5-0 rout at Celtic Park.
Saturday was Celtic’s first home match since the Leipzig game. There may be a pattern developing but it appears Edouard prefers to play at Parkhead.
His form away from home is nowhere near as good as his home form.
Of his 13 goals in all competitions this season, nine have come at Celtic Park.
He only has four away goals this season, most notably his early strike against Salzburg in the Europa League.
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While still on loan from Paris Saint Germain, Edouard notched 11 times for Celtic, and eight of them came in front of his home supporters.
It’s not just goals, Edouard’s all round performances seem to be better at home too.
Take the RB Leipzig game, Edouard’s control and link up play as a lone striker was magnificent. He didn’t give the back line of Leipzig a moment’s peace the whole game.
Then look at his cameo against Motherwell last week. The Frenchman looked slow and ponderous in possession. After Motherwell’s equaliser, Celtic pressed forward hurriedly for a winner.
When long balls were played forward, twice Edouard was seen miles off the play.
However on Saturday, back at home against Kilmarnock, Celtic’s record signing was back in full flow.
He really is a handful when he gets going, and his goal was a deserved reward for a fine game.
Home comforts
Ironically, two of Edouard’s more recognisable performances came away from Celtic Park.
His debut, away to Hamilton, saw a raw but talented youngster announce his introduction to Celtic.
He finished that game with a goal. Brendan Rodgers told the media the youngster was applauded by teammates for his performance.
And of course, his stunning winner at Ibrox when 10-man Celtic defeated Rangers to all but seal their seventh straight league title.
It’s not that he can’t perform away from home, but the stats would suggest Edouard prefers playing at home.
Which is handy for Celtic, as their crunch tie on Thursday against Salzburg will be played under the lights at Celtic Park.