Duran central to changes required for derby revenge
There's been no shortage of debate since Sunday about what went wrong at Ibrox. The midfield, the lack of intensity, the absence of control, and the way Rangers were able to impose themselves physically all across the park. Did Celtic make life a lot harder for themselves by moving players away from the positions where they've been most effective?
Since Sunday, there has been much discussion surrounding the performance of Celtic during their match at Ibrox. Multiple issues have been highlighted, including the midfield, intensity, control, and the physical dominance shown by Rangers. However, the author believes there may be a simpler root cause – Celtic moving players away from their most effective positions.
Camilo Duran, arguably Celtic's best player this season, has been effective when allowed to play in his natural number nine role. He provided three goals and two assists in the three games Kasper Hogh missed through injury. However, after Hogh's return at St Johnstone and Ibrox, Duran was moved out of his preferred position and only made a limited impact.
The author does not suggest dismissing Hogh, but rather emphasizes the importance of accommodating the player who has been most effective. If both players being used reduces Duran's effectiveness, then why is this the approach? With upcoming matches against Ferencvaros and Rangers, Martin O'Neill needs to make changes without overhauling the entire team.
Returning Duran to the central position, and benching Sebastian Tounek and bringing in James Forrest or Oliver Sorensen could provide stability and make Celtic harder to play against. This change could allow the attacking players to perform at their best, ensuring that defeats like the one at Ibrox are not wasted opportunities for growth.
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