Tam McManus writes off Patryk Klimala as not 'the answer'; it's far too early for that kind of chat

By John McGinley

August 10, 2020

Pundit Tam McManus doesn’t believe that Celtic star Patryk Klimala is ‘the answer’ when it comes providing striking support for Odsonne Edouard, speaking to PLZ Soccer today.

Klimala has barely had a chance in the Celtic set-up since joining in January

He’s made just six competitive appearances, five of which have been from the bench, including during yesterday’s disappointing draw away to Kilmarnock.

The Polish U21 international has moved countries, learned a new language and had to deal with the ongoing public health crisis over the last eight months.

Surely he can be given a little leeway when it comes to the expectation of an impact at the Bhoys?

Patryk Klimala celebrates scoring for Celtic / (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Former Hibs man McManus told PLZ Soccer: “Every Celtic fan would rather Leigh Griffiths coming off the bench than Patryk Klimala. I don’t think that’s an underestimation of his abilities.

“I think Griffiths is a huge miss, I think he would’ve maybe been the difference yesterday. I think it was shown yesterday as well that Celtic need more options upfront. They need a striker to come in now.

“I don’t think Klimala is the answer coming off the bench if Edouard has an off day like he did yesterday.”

It’s just far too early for this kind of verdict, especially when Klimala has shown far more hunger and determination to make a positive contribution over the summer than Griffiths.

The Scotland international was left at home by an angry Neil Lennon while Klimala and the rest of the squad travelled to Loughborough and France.

The youngster even got himself on the scoresheet abroad, as he did against Hamilton last week.

Absolutely nobody in that Bhoys team yesterday proved themselves to be worthy.

Patryk Klimala scores for Celtic / (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Celtic do need another striker but it’s not because of Klimala.

With Vakoun Bayo on his way out of the club this season and last term’s 3-5-2 formation proving so successful, it just makes sense to have another quality option in the door.

Personally speaking, I’ve been much more encouraged by Klimala recently than Griffiths, so McManus’ verdict on behalf of ‘every Celtic fan’ is inaccurate!

Klimala has plenty of road ahead to show what he can do and I’m looking forward to seeing if he can rise to the challenge.

In other news, a Serie A side are confident of signing Celtic target Aaron Hickey.