In a season of unprecedented proportions for Celtic, most Celtic fans will be delighted when 2020/21 draws to its conclusion.
However, one minor shining-light of the campaign has been the promising signs shown by younger first-teamers in recent months. Granting developing players opportunities has to become a key focus for Lennoxtown chiefs moving into 2021/22.
With some talented young players on the books at Parkhead, here are three worthy candidates for the Celtic Young Player of the Year accolade due to be awarded on 22nd May 2021 [Celtic FC Website].
1. Kristoffer Ajer
Possibly the main candidate for Young Player and Player of the Year prizes, the Norwegian has been excellent this season. Advancing as a player considerably in the past year, he has made 43 appearances in Celtic colours helping to keep 17 clean sheets [Transfermarkt].
Leading from the back, the Norway international has won an impressive 3.2 aerial duels per 90 minutes in the Scottish Premiership [WhoScored]. On the ground, his commendable anticipation of danger has seen him generate a clearance average of 3.4 per game [WhoScored]. Fundamentally, he has brought some stability to an increasingly leaky Celtic defence.
Also achieving a Scottish top-flight pass accuracy of 88.2%, it is little wonder AC Milan [Glasgow Live] and Newcastle United [The Scottish Sun] are rumoured to be interested in his services. As the man who fired Celtic to a Quadruple Treble triumph against Hearts back in December [BBC Sport]. The award would be a fitting tribute to his exploits in a hooped jersey.
It’s easy to forget that he’s even eligible for this. However, big Kris is only 23, and must be the main man in the frame.
2. Stephen Welsh
Something we don’t see enough at Celtic, is academy prospects making a first-team slot their own after being given an extended opening. Even in adversity, Stephen Welsh has been a credit to the Hoops this season and has a big future ahead of him.
In recent months, Welsh has cemented his place as a regular starter featuring 17 times for the Bhoys [Transfermarkt]. Impossible not to like, the Scot has won 3.7 aerial challenges per fixture showing his ascendancy in both boxes [WhoScored].
Furthermore, his ratio of 3.2 clearances per match coupled with his 1.5 interceptions per median illustrates his all-encompassing defensive attributes [WhoScored].
The youngster could be a key player for Celtic in upcoming years as they look to re-assert their dominance on Scottish football.
3. David Turnbull
Last but by no means least, the 21-year-old has enjoyed a fine Celtic debut season. Becoming a pivotal figure at Parkhead, the Scot has registered nine goals and seven assists from 35 games [Transfermarkt]. Showing great creative intuition, it is no surprise his goal involvement rate is around one in two.
Famously, he also currently holds the title of playing the third most key passes in Europe in 2020/21. Able to provide the go between from defence to attack. His link up play with the likes of Odsonne Edouard and Mohamed Elyounoussi, have become a prominent chance creating tactic.
Noticeably, his technique from either dead ball situations or shooting from range have caught the eye. This is reflected by his Scottish Premiership shots from range tally of 2.2 per contest [WhoScored]. In fine fettle, the door is still open for him to make Scotland’s EURO 2021 roster [BT Sport].
In other news, we take a look at three contenders for Celtic’s Goal of the Season award.
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