Olivier Ntcham could struggle to get back into Celtic team after Callum McGregor’s return

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Olivier Ntcham’s return to the Celtic squad will be a welcome boost, but it could just be as a support player.

The Frenchman has a huge future at Parkhead, and has been a great signing by the club. Costing a reported £4.5million from Manchester City, Ntcham has so far proven to be worth every penny.

Despite that, however, a recent injury has set him back. The former Etihad starlet hasn’t featured since the 1-0 loss at Ibrox back in December. Former boss Brendan Rodgers confirmed this was down to a hamstring knock, and we’ve yet to see him since.

Interim manager Neil Lennon, however, revealed last week that Ntcham is close to a return. He could even be fit for the game against Rangers on March 31st.

If he is, however, then don’t expect him to start.

It could now be the case that Ntcham has to settle for a bit-part role between now and the end of the season. Taking into account the form of Callum McGregor and Scott Brown in the midfield, you just can’t drop either.

McGregor only returned from injury himself at Dens Park on Sunday. Despite that, he looked very much 100% match-fit. He took responsibility and seized the ball whenever he could. It was a thoroughly mature display from him, and a positive one moving forward.

Brown has demonstrated his own leadership abilities over the last month too. His place in the starting XI is always secure unless injured. Considering how much Brown and Lennon have been through together in the past, it doesn’t read too well for the returning Ntcham.

Ntcham adds key strength in depth

For Celtic, this is a terrific addition to add to the squad. If he’s back on the bench against Rangers on March 31st, the Hoops can be safe in the knowledge that they’ve just welcomed back one of the best midfielders in the country.

But Ntcham’s influence in the Celtic team isn’t as great as that of Brown and McGregor. He also doesn’t have the attributes to play as a number 10, and therefore Tom Rogic won’t feel in any danger.

So between now and the end of the season, I’d expect Ntcham to get the odd game here and there, but not a consistent run.

Unless injury strikes the likes of Rogic or McGregor once again, Ntcham could have to bide his time. An injury to Rogic could allow McGregor to push forward and Ntcham to slot in beside Brown, but we’re hardly hoping that’s the case.

Ntcham has a massive part to play in the run to 10-in-a-row. But as for this season? He could now have to settle for being a sub.