Celtic supporters point out the James Forrest effect after winger’s return vs Livingston

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The Celtic supporters weren’t happy with much yesterday, but the return of James Forrest was certainly worth highlighting.

Forrest’s last appearance before the 0-0 draw against Livingston came in the 2-0 win over AZ Alkmaar back in mid-August. The Scotland international had since been sidelined with an injury as Celtic have had to rely on Liel Abada to produce consistently down the right in recent months.

Thankfully, Jamesy made his return to action yesterday. He was given the final 8 minutes as he tried to open up David Martindale’s stuffy West Lothian outfit.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t get the breakthrough in the end. But Forrest showed what he was all about with some lively flashes in the closing stages. He was happy to take on his man and get some deliveries into the penalty area.

There was also a golden opportunity for James in the last minute when he skewed an effort wide after showing good movement to get himself into a goalscoring position. Giorgos Giakoumakis should’ve buried the rebound but failed to do so.

James Forrest immediately reminded Celtic fans of his goalscoring threat

So it didn’t come off for him against Livingston yesterday. But the signs were there that James is ready to make an impact for the Hoops instantly. He didn’t look off the pace and was a constant menace to the Livi backline in the closing minutes.

More importantly in the bigger picture, it adds much needed options to Celtic’s final third contingent. Abada has been tasked with too much considering he only arrived in Scotland as a 19-year-old Israeli talent who was having to adapt to a lot.

Now, we have several options for the right flank. Forrest joins Abada, Jota, and Mikey Johnston as all being able to operate down that flank. If Ange Postecoglou feels the need, there’s the luxury to rotate when necessary.

Of course, you would imagine the priority in the coming weeks will be to get more minutes into Jamesy’s legs. A tough Europa League clash in Hungary may not be the ideal opportunity, but next Sunday’s trip to Dundee could provide us with a chance to build his fitness levels further.

In any case, the Celtic fans are just happy to see him back. Here’s a look at some of the reaction to his re-introduction into the team yesterday:

In other news, Pat Bonner hits out at decision to drop Celtic hero Kyogo for Giorgos Giakoumakis