Former Celtic player Chris Sutton has suggested that Lawrence Shankland should have been playing for Celtic. Sutton made the claim amid discussions about Celtic’s striking options.
Shankland’s Goal Against Rangers
Sutton highlighted the quality of Lawrence Shankland’s goal against Rangers. He contrasted this with Celtic’s attacking situation. Sutton believes that Celtic needed a reliable striker last summer and should have signed Shankland when he was out of contract.
Sutton stated Celtic should have pursued Shankland, regardless of any perceived allegiance to Rangers. He believes that if Celtic had Shankland in their team, their current league position would be different.
Celtic’s Striking Options Assessed
Sutton has concerns about Celtic’s current forward line. He believes Daizen Maeda has to start through the middle. Sutton thinks Maeda has the ability to trouble defenders.
Sutton also commented on Kelechi Iheanacho. He acknowledges Iheanacho’s finishing ability. However, he also noted that Iheanacho can be frustrating to watch and sometimes moves like ‘Robocop’.
Sutton believes Iheanacho can’t be relied upon for a full 90 minutes. He also thinks that O’Neill can’t risk needing a goal in the final 30 minutes and Iheanacho being out of the game.
Glasgow Derby Preview
Sutton anticipates a tightly contested Glasgow Derby. He notes that both Celtic and Rangers have struggled to maintain consistent performances across 90 minutes this season. He suggests the game could be another example of two halves, with the outcome uncertain.
He acknowledges Rangers’ slim title hopes. However, he believes Rangers will still be motivated to win at Celtic Park, with a Champions League place also at stake.
Sutton recognizes that Celtic are still in with a chance of winning the title. He describes the current Celtic side as a bit of a rabble. He notes that Martin O’Neill is having to mend and make do.
Sutton expects the game to be decided by individual moments of brilliance.
Sutton believes that the game is a must-win for both Celtic and Rangers. The result may not even matter when it comes to the destination of the title.