The international break is here, but Celtic aren’t totally out of action as they prepare to face League of Ireland opposition tomorrow night.
While several stars jet off to represent their countries, the Bhoys travel to face Sligo Rovers at the Showgrounds. This may offer some fringe stars the chance to gain valuable minutes and fitness.
Either way, there is a core of Celtic stars on duty with their respective nations, which will provide fans with some form of football fix until competitive club football resumes next Saturday.
Admittedly, the break can feel a little jarring as the season staggers a little amid the Hoops’ seven straight league wins after defeating Ross County.
Brilliant domestic form is cemented week to week, but you need to hope there will be no roadblocks in the way of generating continued momentum.
Regardless, there are a pocket of Celtic men with a chance to show their credentials as potential starters to Brendan Rodgers, so let’s evaluate who could stake a claim during the internationals.
Auston Trusty’s Celtic start and international prospects
Starting off, Auston Trusty could have an important international break ahead of him as he bids to win a permanent slot in the Celtic line-up.
With Cameron Carter-Vickers out injured, the United States international has slotted in alongside Liam Scales, albeit in a right-sided role, despite being naturally left-footed and more comfortable on that side.
Last weekend, Trusty put in a competent display for Celtic against Ross County, completing 104 of his 109 passes and winning eight duels.
Should Carter-Vickers return, he will likely compete with central defensive counterpart Scales for the other slot in Rodgers’ backline.
His case would be helped if Mauricio Pochettino selects him and Trusty performs well for the United States against Panama or Mexico, that is for sure.
Adam Idah’s Celtic competition extends to international level
Since Adam Idah rejoined Celtic for £9.5 million, the Cork-born frontman has gone on to register four goals in his opening nine appearances, some of which have been outings off the bench with brief windows to make an impression.
The 23-year-old was brought in with the mission of Rodgers having two ‘number one’ strikers at the Bhoys, comprising the Irishman and Kyogo Furuhashi, and you suspect rotation will continue to be the case as the campaign rolls on.
Nevertheless, Idah’s fee after joining from Norwich City determines that he will be keen to put himself in pole position for the starting jersey. After being called up for the Republic of Ireland, his sights will be on claiming points in the Nations League across two winnable ties against Finland and Greece.
However, his chances of starting are less certain than in the last few windows due to Evan Ferguson’s return to the fold after injury. Hopefully, Idah can play his part and potentially get on the scoresheet, illustrating his credentials for both club and country.
Anthony Ralston’s Scotland opportunity is a compelling one
Previously, 67 Hail Hail have spoken about Celtic defender Anthony Ralston’s opportunity with Scotland amid their injury problems involving the right-back position.
Nathan Patterson and Aaron Hickey’s prolonged absence alongside Max Johnston being drafted into the Under-21’s has left uncapped Nicky Devlin as his competition for a starting slot, meaning he is likely to start for the Tartan Army against either Croatia or Portugal.
Despite Alistair Johnston’s status as the Bhoys’ preferred choice at right-back, Ralston is a reliable squad member who will be called upon when needed. Keeping sharp on international duty can only boost his chances of involvement, even if he needs to wait for his chance at club level.
For many players, putting food for thought in a manager’s head can happen with accomplished displays for their country. Hopefully, they can all perform under the spotlight.
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