Celtic youngster can be perfect replacement for Nir Bitton

As one player ends his Celtic career another could see opportunities open up for him. Nir Bitton’s departure could give a great chance for others to step up. It is easy to see how Yosuke Ideguchi may benefit from more game time with the Israel international and Tom Rogic leaving a midfield gap behind them. But the absence of the defensive midfielder in particular and his versatility, also opens the door for young B team player Bosun Lawal.

Lawal is still only 18 years of age and joined Celtic from Watford last summer. He was the Academy Player of the Season for the Hornets and already an Under-21 for the Republic of Ireland at that point of time.

So far the promise he showed at Watford has been continued with the Celtic B team as well, despite an interruption to his season due to an injury.

Lawal has hit top form again quickly following his return and impressed B team manager Tommy McIntyre. Thus, it feels like he has a bright future at the club.

Could Lawal be the one to replace Bitton at Celtic?

One of the factors in Postecoglou’s team selection and why Christopher Jullien has not even been making the substitutes bench of late is down to the manager preferring other players who could cover at either centre-back or midfield. Bitton being an obvious example.

Lawal may have a helpful advantage here. His great form and B team displays have him making a case for a chance with the first-team already. Also, like Bitton, he can play in defence or in midfield and offers that flexibility on the bench which Postecoglou likes to have.

Lawal is believed to have turned down the likes of Chelsea and Norwich City to join Celtic. Pre season may be a great time to show what he can do for the Hoops at a higher level and take steps to becoming a first-team superstar at Parkhead in the future.