Pat Bonner calls out Kasper Schmeichel’s actions after Daizen Maeda’s winner for Celtic vs Motherwell

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There probably isn’t anyone better to talk about Celtic goalkeepers than Pat Bonner.

The former Republic of Ireland international was a one-club man, after representing Celtic for nearly two decades, including lifting 12 major honours.

On Sunday, Bonner was at Parkhead as Celtic beat Motherwell in stoppage time, thanks to a diving header from Daizen Maeda.

After that goal went in, there were still a few minutes left to play, as Kasper Schmeichel left Celtic’s legendary keeper frustrated in the commentary box.

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Kasper Schmeichel’s actions after Daizen Maeda’s winner for Celtic

Celtic had possession with Schmeichel on the ball, as Motherwell were pushing for an equaliser, and rather than keep the ball, he opted to boot it straight back to the opposing keeper.

Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland, this left Bonner frustrated, and he questioned why Schmeichel would ‘put the pressure back on top of you.’

Bonner explained what Celtic’s number one should have done instead, but he has come under fire of late.

“This kick from Schmeichel,” said a frustrated Bonner. “Where are you going to put it? Into the other goalkeeper’s hands, and put the pressure back on top of you?!

“He could have put it into a corner where at least you can get a throw-in. A corner. Or something. At least get possession or make the opposition play the ball from that position.”

Is Schmeichel under pressure?

Celtic’s 2-0 defeat to Braga in the Europa League on Thursday was a body blow, and one that didn’t put Schmeichel in a good light, especially their opening long-range effort.

What’s interesting is that, before the Hoops’ League Cup quarter-final win over Partick Thistle a fortnight ago, Bonner called for Viljami Sinisalo to become Celtic’s number one.

“Schmeichel has got to a stage in his life now where I would probably go with Sinisalo to maybe start games, and he would be the back-up,” stated Bonner on BBC Radio Scotland.

There is a bit of pressure on Schmeichel, especially given that Sinisalo impresses every time he takes the gloves.