Celtic manager Neil Lennon reckons youth prospect Karamoko Dembele could make a surprise first-team appearance before the end of the season, as reported by The Scotsman.
There are only a handful of games left before the Hoops head off on their close season holidays, five to be precise, and Dembele is unlikely to be selected for the Scottish Cup final against Hearts, meaning time is running out on him making his debut this term.
Still, Lennon feels if all goes well over the coming weeks he could get some game time.
As quoted by The Scotsman, he said:
If all things go well you may see him around before the end of the season. I am a big fan of his. I like his style. I would like to get him integrated into the first team squad sooner rather than later but he still has a bit of work to do.
Celtic fans had an opportunity to see Dembele in action live on television tonight when he took part in the Scottish Youth Cup final against Rangers.
The young Hoops ultimately lost 3-2 after a disappointing 90 minutes but the 16-year-old England youth international did show flashes of brilliance throughout.
He still looks a bit away from being able to feature for the senior side, but Lennon clearly sees enough talent in him that he could get some minutes on the pitch once the league is done and dusted.
Do you reckon Karamoko Dembele is ready for first-team football? Have your say in the comments below…