Karamoko Dembele should get Celtic chance on Thursday if he is available

Add as preferred source on Google

Perhaps surprisingly, Neil Lennon named a strong lineup for Celtic’s penultimate Europa League group-stage game last week – despite the Hoops’ hopes of qualification already being dashed.

The decision did not pay off. Celtic made a fantastic start. But they were beaten 4-2 by AC Milan. And the glimmer of hope did them few favours in their following game as they required a late equaliser to get a point against St Johnstone.

With the pressure increasing on Lennon, it surely makes sense to make a number of changes for their final group game – which comes this Thursday when they face Lille at Parkhead.

If Lennon puts out a young side, it obviously gives Celtic’s key men a rest. It also opens the door for a result that may be a lot easier to accept.

If Celtic’s youngsters are beaten by Lille, the disappointment will surely turn nowhere near as toxic as it has been at times in recent weeks.

And perhaps one player that Lennon should consider if he does opt for a more inexperienced lineup is Karamoko Dembele.

Dembele’s lack of game-time this season has been a surprise. He has not featured since the opening day of the league campaign. And it appears that there is now some doubt about his future.

According to a recent report from The Athletic, there are worries at Celtic about his development. It is also noted that his attitude is concerning some at Lennoxtown.

It is suggested that he is not in the first-team picture right now. So it may be that there is absolutely no chance of the 17-year-old playing.

But if he is available for Thursday, perhaps he should come into contention.

Dembele looks to have the talent to still realise his full potential. And, while he is obviously not the finished article by any means, he also has the ability to make an impact in the first-team if given another chance.

Celtic’s result this Thursday means little for their season. Turning to the young players therefore, may just hand the Bhoys a much-needed lift.

And handing Dembele the stage to potentially shine may perhaps open the door for the youngster to get his development back on track.

Celtic lose little if the gamble does not pay off.