The familiar frustration Maik Nawrocki needs to overcome to establish himself at Celtic

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Maik Nawrocki’s Celtic career hasn’t gone the way many had hoped due to a spate of injury issues that have plagued his time at Parkhead.

Despite arriving in Glasgow last summer to high anticipation from supporters, the Polish defender hasn’t been able to establish himself in Brendan Rodgers’ starting line-up.

In a spell of fits and starts, Nawrocki has made just 13 competitive appearances for the Bhoys, leaving room for others to secure a first-team slot alongside Cameron Carter-Vickers.

Pre-season was viewed by some as a catalyst for the 23-year-old to prove his worth; however, he was withdrawn after 20 minutes against Ayr United last Friday due to a knock. Lenny Agbaire came on as his replacement.

Whether the problem keeps him out for a prolonged spell remains to be seen; nevertheless, there is an argument that more instances of absence may harm his chances of progressing in green and white.

Maik Nawrocki and his injury frustration at Celtic

Liam Scales is the perfect case study of what can happen when slots are available in an injury crisis. He took his chance last season and is now above Nawrocki in the pecking order without even pitting both players against each other.

Availability is a powerful tool in football. Celtic make their money from succeeding over the course of long, gruelling seasons, which require individuals able to stand the test of time.

Nawrocki is a talented individual; there is no doubt about that. During his brief involvement, he has shown himself as an imposing defender who can break lines with his passing.

After all, Celtic paid £4.3 million for his services, so you would expect those qualities to match his price tag. On talent, there is no reason why he shouldn’t be pushing for a place in the starting line-up week in and week out.

Like any player who dons the famous green and white, I wholeheartedly want him to succeed and believe that without his injury struggles, he would do just that.

Conversely, that isn’t always how football works. Every individual is different, and some are more prone to accidents than others. Rodgers wants another centre-back in the door to compete for places. Should he get his wish, where does Nawrocki stand at Parkhead?

Defence is an area that needs strengthening and may produce casualties as a consequence. Nawrocki has the tools to thrive at Celtic; however, his injury frustration isn’t ideal. Hopefully, he can reach full fitness and stake a strong claim for a starting berth.