Chris Sutton praises Celtic defender Hatem Abd Elhamed

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Chris Sutton has praised Celtic defender Hatem Abd Elhamed and believes he’s been an excellent addition at Parkhead.

The Bhoys signed the right-back for £1.6million (Scottish Sun) in the summer from Hapoel Beer Sheva.

Hs is a Israel international that has joined the Scottish giants to provide more defensive cover and has started strongly.

Elhamed has made seven senior appearances for Celtic so far and is beginning to win over supporters with his consistent performances.

The 28-year-old was rock solid during the 1-1 away draw against Rennes on Thursday in the Europa League group stages.

Manager Neil Lennon also has the added bonus of using him at centre-back if required, as that’s the position he plays for his national side.

Ex-Celtic striker Sutton is impressed by Elhamed and believes he does the simple things well.

“Hatem Abd Elhamed is another signing who looks dependable and safe,” Sutton wrote in the Daily Record.

“There’s nothing flashy about the Israeli and, in many ways, that’s the best thing about him. There’s no drama there. He’s strong, he’s diligent and he does his job well for the side.”

TBR’s View:

Celtic are going to have to defend well if they want to go deep in the Europa League and Elhamed does look a solid option at right-back.

The full-back is strong in the tackle, has a great defensive awareness, while he tries to get forward too and join in with attacks.

He already turned up earlier in the season with a big display in the Old Firm away win over Rangers and he does have a calmness to everything he does.

There is also a decent combination forming behind right-winger James Forrest and it’s one the manager should keep an eye on.