Lee O'Connor could get Celtic chance sooner than expected given Celtic injury crisis
On deadline day, Celtic swooped to sign Lee O’Connor from Manchester United on a permanent deal. He is considered one for the future but he might get his chance sooner than expected.
Neil Lennon will be considering a promotion for O’Connor given his lack of options at the back. If there are any more injuries, O’Connor might be next in line to join the Celtic first-team squad.
Celtic injury crisis
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Celtic’s defensive options are depleted at the moment. Nir Bitton and Jozo Simunovic are both out while Greg Taylor is a doubt for the upcoming Europa League clash with Rennes.
Christopher Jullien is another doubt after suffering a clash of heads against Hamilton. This could prompt Hatem Abd Elhamed to move to centre-back (alongside Kristoffer Ajer) and Moritz Bauer to right-back.
O’Connor lies in wait
If Lennon selects a back four of Bauer, Elhamed, Ajer and Boli Bolingoli, Celtic need a defender on the bench. Lee O’Connor could well be next in line and he will be awaiting a call-up.
The Republic of Ireland U21 starlet has been getting up to speed during the international break. He has also played for Manchester United’s U23 team this season so he has games under his belt if he is needed. O’Connor’s versatility will appeal to Lennon; the 19-year-old plays anywhere across the back.
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Frimpong and Hendry also available
O’Connor is not the only young defender waiting in line for a Celtic chance. Jeremie Frimpong also joined Celtic on deadline day. The Dutch right-back signed from Manchester City as one for the future.
Meanwhile, Jack Hendry has been cast aside but he will try to earn a recall. Calvin Miller and Luca Connell are also options at left-back to cover for Bolingoli.
