Michel-Ange Balikwisha has endured a difficult start to life at Celtic.
After being courted for over a year, Balikwisha joined at the end of the transfer window, but has largely settled for appearances off the bench.
The Belgian looked bright in the final game before the international, providing the assist for Daizen Maeda’s header in Celtic’s 3-2 win against Motherwell.
Maeda has withdrawn from Japan’s international squad due to injury and Sebastian Tounekti missed Tunisia’s World Cup qualifier, meaning that there is a chance for the winger to really show what he is about.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha could start against Dundee
At the time of writing, there is no timeframe on how long Maeda and Tounekti are out.
Brendan Rodgers won’t be happy with the timing at all, but for Balikwisha, this is his time to shine.
Balikwisha admitted that his start hasn’t been easy and adjusting to the hype after leaving Royal Antwerp would always take time.
A run of games in the XI may help to breed more confidence, and with Maeda keen on heading to the Premier League, prove to supporters that the position is covered in the long term.
Only the 24-year-old can do this, though, and if given the chance, must grab it with both hands.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha ‘desperate’ to make Celtic impact
Over the international break, Balikwisha has remained at Lennoxtown with those not selected for international duty.
During that time, the Belgian spoke to Celtic TV, where he admitted that his assist against Motherwell was inspired by his desire to make a difference at the club.
“After a good week of training with a positive mindset and confidence, when the gaffer called me on the touchline I was desperate to come on and help the team to win the game,” he said.
“God has shown me mercy and I played free. Arne found me in the space and I crossed it left foot for Daizen who finished it well.
“It was an incredible feeling with the noise of the fans and, for me, it was as if I had scored.”
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