Celtic fans have been reacting to the performance of Mohamed Elyounoussi vs Cluj from last night.
The Norwegian managed to score his first Celtic goal via a huge deflection to put the Hoops 2-0 ahead. In the end, that was to be the end of the scoring as Neil Lennon’s side secured revenge and a big three points. Odsonne Edouard had given the Bhoys a first-half lead.
Elyounoussi’s display, however, had a lot more to show for it than a single goal. He combined superbly well with Ryan Christie and Eddy. Added to that, he showed clever turns of pace and sharp technique on the ball to keep Celtic in control.
He looks a real handful, and really came out of his shell against Dan Petrescu’s side. Reacting to his display on social media, here’s a look at how these Celtic fans view him:
https://twitter.com/queenmachine67/status/1179869344731402240
https://twitter.com/splbanter/status/1179863425058574337
https://twitter.com/BartinBart/status/1179851697423826945
https://twitter.com/rebelcountybhoy/status/1179864026395922432
Stunning display, and the gaffer agrees
Neil Lennon was quick to call Elyounoussi’s display tonight “fantastic” (BBC, 22:22). In fairness to the Norwegian international, he deserves every bit of praise that comes his way too.
It wasn’t just his goal tonight. He was the symbol of all that was good about the Hoops. Elyounoussi won several headers in the opening stages of the game. He threw himself about and it seriously set the tone for a sensational night at Parkhead.
Elyounoussi grew into the game further too. He was direct, energetic, and gave Celtic that explosiveness we’ve been missing from the left side since Mikey Johnston’s injury.
Now, you have to imagine, Elyounoussi immediately jumps over both Scott Sinclair and Lewis Morgan in the pecking order. Neither man can lay claim to being Johnston’s replacement. And even when Johnston comes back, it’s clear he’s got a fresh new challenger looking to take his spot.
It’s only one game, and nobody will get ahead of themselves. Elyounoussi has plenty more to prove in his season-long loan stint. But he’s finally had that breakthrough performance he was looking for. He’s finally announced himself as a Celtic player.
Now, all eyes will be on how he carries on this fine outing. And it hopefully all continues at Livingston this Sunday.
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