Leigh Griffiths made a welcome return to the Celtic squad for the 3-0 win over Hibs at the weekend and it hopefully gives Neil Lennon a selection headache moving forwards.
Speaking to Football Insider, former Hoops star, Frank McAvennie, is delighted to see the striker back in shape and hopes that he can bring a different dimension to the attack.
So what has McAvennie said?
When asked to reflect on the Scotland international’s inclusion on Sunday, he said:
“I was delighted to see Griffiths on the bench because I am a big fan of Griff,”
“I do not know what is going to happen now that Griffiths is back. It is a great headache for Lenny to have though.
“Edouard has not been playing well but he is a wonderful player. Him and Griffiths had such a great understanding at the back end of last season so it could be an option.
“The biggest thing for me last weekend to see Griff back. Lenny would not have put him in unless his head is right. Neil has been through his problems as a player. Managers had to look the other way with Lenny sometimes so he will understand more than most what Griff has been through.
“I am so glad to see him back and I wish him all the best. He is a fantastic asset to both Scotland and Celtic.”
So is McAvennie correct?
Absolutely, if Lennon has a choice between Odsonne Edouard, Albian Ajeti and a fully fit Leigh Griffiths it will be a huge boost to his title hopes.
The former Hibs man showed in the early part of 2020 just how effective he can be, especially in a 3-5-2, and his form was a key part of the 9-in-a-row success.
Can Lennon trust Griffiths to make an impact in first-team?
Yes
No
If the gaffer is able to rotate between the three strikers without any drop in quality, it would avoid having to play the likes of Ryan Christie and Mohamed Elyounoussi as auxiliary forwards and would only increase the goal threat that is already feared in the Premiership – it’s a cliche to say that he would be like the proverbial “new signing” but after looking like he was heading out the door, seeing him in green and white once again would be a welcome sight for the Paradise Pass faithful.