Pundit and former Celtic star Chris Sutton believes that winger Scott Sinclair may have been better off leaving Celtic Park during the summer transfer window, writing in his regular Daily Record column.
Sinclair made a triumphant return to the Celtic first-team during last week’s Scottish League Cup clash against Partick Thistle.
Having not previously featured since early August, he came off the bench to score in the 5-0 rout. It was a goal that received a massive reception from supporters. The player was also visibly delighted by the effort, celebrating with passion.
Sutton, although conceding he could still have a part to play in Neil Lennon’s team this season, reckons that he should have said his goodbyes during the summer.
As quoted by The Daily Record, he said: “To be honest, it would probably have been best for both parties if he’d left in the summer.
“Let’s face it. He’s down to fourth choice at Celtic behind Mohamed Elyounoussi, Mikey Johnston and Lewis Morgan.
“It’s a heck of a fall for a player who was Scotland’s Player of the Year three seasons ago.
“For whatever reason he’s drifted. Players lose confidence, it happens to most at times, but the only way to recapture it is by playing your way back in training and in matches.”
What next for Sinclair?
Sutton goes on to expand in his column that the onus is on the player to prove to Lennon that he is worth playing more.
Clearly is efforts are having some sort of an effect. The manager would again select Sinclair from the bench at Easter Road yesterday when we were chasing the game.
Competition is strong with Mikey Johnston and Mohamed Elyounoussi ahead of him in the pecking order. However, Sinclair can still be an effective option.
Having experienced quality like his on the bench is something that perhaps should be utilised more. That’s especially true when matches are stretched and the opposition are tired.
He has the backing of supporters, does he have the backing of Lennon?
Hopefully we see more of him as the season progresses.
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