Ex Celt, Frank McAvennie believes that young centre-half Stephen Welsh could be the answer to the defensive midfield gap in our squad, should Ange Postecoglu not get a signing in before the transfer window shuts at the end of this month.
Former frontman McAvennie was reported in Football Scotland as telling Football Insider, that he felt Welsh had what it takes to make an impact in a deep-lying position.
“I don’t think Welsh is going to get a game at centre-half when everyone is fit.
“He could play in midfield as a holding midfield player.
“That’s down to the manager. I think he’s comfortable with the ball at his feet so maybe the manager would want to try him in there.
“If we don’t sign anyone, on big European nights, you’ve got to have someone to be more aware defensively than attacking.
“That might work, it could be an option for Ange if he doesn’t get anyone.
“And it will get Welsh a game. He doesn’t let anyone down when he comes in but he’s not going to be number one.“
With Welsh currently behind CCV, Jenz and Starfelt, you would imagine opportunities for the young lad may be limited again this season, despite a goalscoring appearance in the first game of the season against Aberdeen.
For me, I can’t see this as an option for Ange, while I agree with Frank, that the midfield could use someone more defensively minded in the middle of the park when competing against the big boys in the Champions League. This is a specialist position that requires experience of playing in the role and being positionally aware is perhaps more important than being able to put in a tackle. This is why I can’t see Ange risking someone inexperienced in the role on the big stage.
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