Paulo Bernardo’s role at Celtic following dominant Glasgow Derby display

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Celtic fans were curious to see who would fill Matt O’Riley’s boots at Celtic following his exit to Brighton & Hove Albion during the summer window.

Brendan Rodgers reacted convincingly in the dying embers of market activity, bringing in Arne Engels and Luke McCowan to complement existing midfield options Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, Odin Thaigo Holm and Paulo Bernardo.

Given his side’s strong start to the Scottish Premiership campaign, the manager made as few changes as possible heading into last weekend’s clash against Rangers.

In the end, drip-feeding new arrivals Engels and McCowan involvement in the engine room was the right decision. Bernardo delivered in the Glasgow Derby during a truly dominant Bhoys performance. So what could that mean once Celtic return from the international break?

Paulo Bernardo’s place to lose in midfield

In my opinion, don’t shoot me down, but Bernardo has earned the chance to defend his slot in the side after his excellent display against Rangers.

The Portugal Under-21 international arrived on loan last year and many were expecting a creative midfield operator who is capable of sprinkling stardust on the big occasions.

However, his tenacity in the engine room and ability to fight out of possession have proved equally powerful. Last weekend, he completed ten defensive actions on the field in just over an hour, illustrating his capacity to make his presence felt on derby day [Fotmob].

Bernardo also created three chances by advancing through the thirds and rounded off with four successful dribbles. You may remember his slaloming run past two or three hapless Rangers men before forcing Jack Butland into a save in the first half; I’m almost certain that would’ve counted as one.

Earning a reputation as a bit of an all-rounder, Celtic look to have landed themselves a bargain in the market, with his arrival costing just £3.5 million.

Last term, there were periods where he didn’t grab matches by the scruff of the neck, but he appears to be thriving with additional pressure in his shoulders to fill the void left by O’Riley.

While the new signings integrate into Rodgers’ way of working, Bernardo deserved the chance to take the mantle after the international break. Plenty of football is left to be played this season. Everyone will get their chance to stake a claim for minutes.

I feel Rodgers may lean with the tried and tested option for the next few games; I could also be wide of the mark.