Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will be keen to ensure his side make it six wins on the bounce by claiming three points against Ross County at Parkhead this weekend.
The Scottish Premiership holders enjoyed the opportunity for some much-needed rest over the winter break and returned to action with a comprehensive victory over Buckie Thistle last Sunday.
Nevertheless, Rodgers has confirmed that Greg Taylor sustained a calf strain against the Highland League side and could now be out for a period, leaving a void to be filled on the left-hand side of defence [Football Scotland].
Bringing in a left-back is believed to be high on Rodgers’ priority list in the latter stages of the window, though it is still unclear who the Hoops could target to solve what has become a problem position.
Realistically, it is unlikely that Celtic will address the area before tomorrow’s match against Derek Adams’ Staggies outfit, given the complex nature of the mid-season market.
In light of this, 67 Hail Hail run the rule over three players who could deputise for Taylor in their first home league fixture of 2024.
Liam Scales looks to be the obvious choice for Celtic
Republic of Ireland international Liam Scales has previous experience featuring at left-back for Celtic and would be the obvious choice to start against Ross County.
Intriguingly, Rodgers has already hinted that the former Shamrock Rovers man could be an internal solution to offer depth in the position should reinforcements fail to arrive this month.
The 51-year-old stated in a recent interview: “Clearly there is a loading issue there we need to be mindful of if we don’t bring in support there. I know I’ve got Liam Scales who can play there, in a worst case scenario.”
Familiarity within the starting line-up may also help his case. Scales has made 27 appearances across all competitions this term, registering a solitary goal and three assists [Transfermarkt].
Maik Nawrocki has emerged as a first-team starter after a period in the wilderness and moving his central defensive counterpart over to left-back may also offer the Pole an opportunity to continue his solid form.
Alexandro Bernabei could be given a rare Celtic opportunity
Alexandro Bernabei has become a rarely-seen presence this campaign and doesn’t look to be anything more than a spare part at Parkhead.
Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph reported earlier this month that the Argentine defender is among a clutch of players that Celtic could look to offload before the close of play if the opportunity presents itself.
Despite this, the 23-year-old is still on the books at the club and there is a chance that he could be involved in some capacity against Ross County due to a lack of availability in his position.
As per Transfermarkt, Bernabei has featured just four times as a substitute for the Bhoys in 2023/24 and doesn’t look to have inherited the full trust of Rodgers since the Irishman’s arrival.
On a different note, Celtic have become fond of a redemption arc or two over recent years. Could Bernabei kickstart an unlikely renaissance in green and white against the Staggies? It is hard to see, though stranger things have happened at the Scottish champions.
Mitchel Frame could offer Celtic a glimpse into the future
In a left-field suggestion, highly-rated Celtic youngster Mitchel Frame could be given another taste of first-team action following his impressive senior debut for the Hoops against Feyenoord in December.
The 18-year-old has previously attracted interest from the likes of Newcastle United, Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion last year before renewing his terms at Parkhead until 2026.
Youth development has been a difficult endeavour for the Bhoys over the last decade. Only a small core of Lennoxtown products have managed to enjoy a prolonged career at senior level with the club.
Nobody is saying Frame must be thrown in at the deep end during the Scottish Premiership title race; however, tomorrow could be the ideal environment to see what he can offer amid Taylor’s absence.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
