Nir Bitton continues to impress for Israel, yet he’s pretty much out of the picture at Celtic.
Bitton, signed as a defensive midfielder, has very decent versatility. Like at Celtic, the Israeli national team play him either in front of the defence, or as part of it. More often than not, at international level, he’s a key player.
The 29-year-old faces different fortunes at Celtic, however. In big matches wearing the Hoops, Bitton has been a considerable let-down. His daft red cards against FC Midtjylland and Rangers turned both games on their head, from advantageous positions.
So, what’s the answer here? Let’s take a look at the difference in performances.
In Israel’s last game, the 5-2 win over Austria, Bitton was everywhere. On the left of a back-three, in a game where his opposition were meant to see more of the ball, the Celtic man was influential. He ended with an assist, after 48 touches of the ball, one key pass and not a single duel or aerial battle lost [FotMob].
His heat map [WhoScored?] shows a player who loves getting forward, getting on the ball in advanced areas, and shuttling between defence and attack.
In Israel’s win over Scotland back in November 2020, he was part of a 5-man defence, with fewer opportunities – theoretically – to advance the ball. However, he continually did, recovering it a staggering 10 times, and hitting accurate passes. He even attempted two successful dribbles into opposition territory [FotMob].
So, why can’t he do that with Celtic?
If Nir Bitton could repeat his international form at Celtic, it could solve a key issue
Remember when we Celtic were linked with Ali McCann, for a bit of bite in midfield? That tackling, metronomic passing and physical presence in the middle of the park?
We could well have that under our nose, but Nir Bitton just doesn’t get a chance for Celtic as a defensive midfielder. The last time he played a whole game in that position was August 2019 [Transfermarkt].
We’re not just saying “Stick Bitton in the team ASAP”, because his performances at club level just haven’t justified it. Not for a while. However, it’s possible that he’s wasted as the kind of centre-back Celtic have wanted him to be.
In a defensive three, with license to roam and advance the ball, he thrives for Israel. Whereas in a two, with more defensive responsibilities for Celtic, his lack of pace is exposed.
Clearly, he’s got the technical ability to anchor a defence, from midfield. When we talk about spending, spending, spending, we might be ignoring that a potentially valuable option is being totally misused.
Read more: Celtic captain’s comments show striking contrast in outlooks
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