Undoubtedly, Celtic have looked uninspiring going forward at times throughout the current campaign. Despite switching formations and personnel regularly, some players have been unable to force their way into first-team reckoning.
Ewan Henderson has had to feed off scraps in recent times for Celtic. Seemingly being fit and available, he has only made three competitive appearances in the Hoops this season [Transfermarkt]. Now should be the time to give the 20-year-old an opportunity, as his skillset would benefit the Hoops for the rest of 2020/21.
Potentially, the playmaker could be an alternative on the right of the diamond formation. Usually occupying the role is Celtic star Ryan Christie, although he hasn’t performed to his usual standards in recent weeks. Henderson has been centrally situated as a Celtic player, however he excelled right-midfield for the Celts in their 3-2 triumph over Lille last December.
Ewan Henderson would suit John Kennedy’s possession-based football
Capable of threading weighted passes, the Scotland Under-21 cap would fare well in a system that contains two mobile strikers. As shown in last weeks stalemate with Rangers, Mohamed Elyounoussi and Odsonne Edouard can both come deep to receive the ball. This may potentially aid Celtic in playing against low-block backlines, allowing for intricate passing exchanges and unpredictable movement.
By drawing defenders out through concise ball-retention, space is freed up for team-mates David Turnbull and Callum McGregor to utilise. Furthermore, Henderson’s crossing ability and technique could favour a striking partnership considerably.
In particular, Mohamed Elyounoussi is able to thrive off of early crosses into the box as seen against Rangers which should be an avenue Celtic exploit going forward. Penalty box strikers Albian Ajeti and Leigh Griffiths may also favour Henderson’s direct approach due their instinctive finishing styles.
All in, Henderson would offer something different to the Celtic midfield between now and the end of May. Celtic could do a lot worse than to give him a chance to prove his worth.
In other news, Anton Ferdinand has sent a class social media to Celtic captain Scott Brown.
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