In the sixth article in the 2016/17 season review series, I consider the work of the wingers. Arguably the strongest section of the team, last season was the story of three excellent players. Celtic play with either three attacking midfielders behind a striker, or three forwards of which two are wide. Sinclair has made the … [continue reading]
Archives for June 2017
The Engine Room
The Engine Room is subsidiary to a review of season 16/17, and is the fifth chapter. Here I will consider the central midfield. This includes three distinct roles: Defensive or holding central midfielder – Bitton or Brown, and possibly Kouassi Box to box central midfielder – Armstrong or McGregor Classic Number 10 – Rogic … [continue reading]
An Unsettled Outlook
The fourth season review considers the centre backs. I have discovered that assessing centre backs is harder than any other position. I think this is harder because: Even more so than with full backs, central defending depends on “actions” not easy to capture – i.e. where to stand. Most danger is avoided due to being … [continue reading]
Right Back Where We Left Off
In the third article in the series of 2016/17 season reviews, I look at the performance of the full backs. A key position the way Celtic play, much is expected in the attacking third from the Celtic wide defence, especially domestically. Right Back Appearances In his 6th season at Celtic, Lustig held down the right … [continue reading]
Keeping Fine
In the second of the 2016/17 season reviews, I start at the back, with the goal keeper. I have already produced a feature on Craig Gordon, and I will not repeat it but request you read “Old Gord, New Tricks”. Gordon has been the Celtic first choice for the three seasons I have been collecting … [continue reading]
The 12th Man
Brendan Rodgers was appointed Celtic manager on 23rd May 2016. The Deila reign had run out of momentum, increasingly characterised by sluggish performances in big games, and a one paced, predictable brand of football. My reaction to the appointment of Rodgers was one of curiosity. Not being overly familiar with Rodgers, and not considering “lifelong … [continue reading]