Mystery solved regarding Celtic star’s absence from squad

It has been a difficult season for many Celtic players, so when one of them doesn’t make the bench, you have to wonder what their situation at the club is. It’s a big squad and not everyone will make the final cut on a match day. And it’s not always straightforward getting the right mix of players both on the pitch and on the bench.

As one of the summer signings, Albian Ajeti may well feel concerned that he wasn’t even on the bench for the Glasgow Derby at the weekend. It definitely sparked some discussion and speculation amongst fans.

Brought in from West Ham United over the summer for a £5 million transfer fee, it is safe to say that the Swiss international has not had a brilliant debut campaign at Parkhead.

Ajeti still hasn’t settled into a regular playing position. Fitness issues and injuries have affected his season as well. He started very brightly after arriving but faded away following an injury. At one point of time, he was averaging a goal every 47 minutes in the Premiership and did not take a lot of time to reach his first 5 goals for the club. But those have dried up since and so have minutes.

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Ajeti has struggled since joining Celtic

As reported by the Glasgow Times John Kennedy spoke with Ajeti to explain his decision to drop him from the squad. He also confirmed there is no big issue at play here:

"“We had so many fit players and everyone wanted to be involved. Three strikers on the bench for the game wasn’t quite right.“I spoke to Albian and addressed it so there’s no drama. Every game is different. We needed a balance on the bench but it’s fine.”"

Ajeti can take some comfort there. Perhaps, with the future changes both on and off the pitch there is still a great opportunity to show what he can do. Perhaps the team set up, other players around him and general tactics haven’t quite suited him and that could change under a different manager.

As the club start thinking about players who will likely still be here for next season, it’s worth exploring further where Ajeti’s best position is in the side. It definitely shouldn’t be out of the squad.