One of the most worrying things about Celtic’s last two domestic games has been the substitutions Neil Lennon has used to try and force a result.
At both Easter Road and Almondvale, the Northern Irishman used his first two changes to bring on both Jonny Hayes and Vakoun Issouf Bayo. The pair may both be relatively popular with supporters, and have something to offer in the future, but the chances of them saving the day in tough away venues right now is highly unlikely.
Bayo, in particular, has been harshly treated by Lennon. What is he expected to do when thrown on simply as a battering ram? Lennon would be much better suited having Leigh Griffiths as a super sub – and there the problem lies.
Something has happened with Griffiths in recent weeks
The forward hasn’t been seen since late August when he made a 13 minute appearance in the win over Hearts. For all of Griffiths’ good work in pre-season and beyond, he has faded badly in recent weeks. Something has clearly happened and Lennon could do worse than sorting it before we drop any more needless points in the league.
You could extend the argument to Scott Sinclair and Tom Rogic too. Like Griffiths, they were huge players for us in the ‘Invincible’ season and beyond. That trio would be great to have on the bench in matches when we are struggling – like at Hibernian and Livingston.
Lennon must do everything he can to get Griffiths, Sinclair and Rogic up to speed over the next few weeks. All three have something to offer if at peak condition, and would make far better bench options than the likes of Hayes and Bayo.
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