Kasper Hogh dismantles Sporting as Celtic’s search for a striker becomes even more evident

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As Celtic struggle to find a striker to lead the line, one-time target Kasper Hogh continues to tear up the Champions League.

Hogh was wanted by Celtic back in February as the Parkhead club continued to look for an heir for Kyogo Furuhashi.

67 Hail Hail told how Celtic should have moved for Hogh before the Bodo/Glimt striker took Man City apart in January.

And now, as Tomas Cvancara, Kelechi Iheanacho and Junior Adamu all struggle for goals at Celtic, Hogh’s Champions League dream continued this week.

• READ MORE: Why Queen of the South’s swift action shames Celtic and Rangers’ Glasgow Derby response

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A masterclass in clinical finishing is what Celtic are missing

Høgh’s goal was a snapshot of everything Martin O’Neill needs in a striker for the title run-in.

It wasn’t just the finish, it was the intelligent movement and the ability to lead the line against elite opposition that is really impressive about the Danish striker.

While Celtic struggle to dominate domestically this season, the transition to the top tier of European competition requires a physical and technical presence capable of turning half-chances into breakthroughs.

Last night, Høgh proved he isn’t just a prospect anymore. By netting his fifth goal in five Champions League matches, he has matched records set by the likes of Rasmus Højlund.

He operated with a level of composure and tactical discipline that suggested he is ready for a massive step up this summer.

The big missing piece in the Celtic summer rebuild

The clear gap in the current Celtic squad remains a consistent, physical goalscorer who can thrive under the pressure of playing at Parkhead.

A lack of a dominant focal point in Celtic’s attacking areas is so prominent as the goalscoring charts show from this season, compared to last season.

As the recruitment team looks toward the summer window, Hogh is the type of player Celtic require for next season.

The need for a proper striker has never been more apparent than it has been this season. Whether it is a direct pursuit of Hogh, who will now be out of Celtic’s price range, or a player of similar calibre, the necessity for a marquee signing is crucial.

Bodø/Glimt are showing what is possible with the right striker leading the line. Now, it is up to Celtic to ensure they aren’t left wondering ‘what if’ when the next European and domestic campaign kicks off next year.