Celtic’s Former Striker Could Thrive Under Wilfried Nancy Now

Celtic’s striker situation has been in turmoil over the past year. It began with Kyogo Furuhashi’s January exit and continued in the summer with Adam Idah leaving, without the club bringing in adequate replacements. The lack of reinforcements has fuelled fan frustration and protests against the board, while Wilfried Nancy will now be seeking a much-needed striker during the January transfer window.

Former Hoops defender Charlie Mulgrew recently discussed Idah’s potential under Nancy, comparing him to Johnny Kenny and reflecting on how he might have fared under the current management.

Celtic’s approach under Nancy has been bold, with the Hoops producing a 4-2 win over Livingston on Saturday, highlighting a more gung-ho style of play. However, in previous matches, such as against Aberdeen, clear-cut chances were repeatedly missed – a scenario in which Kenny found himself heavily involved.

Speaking on The Breakdown, Mulgrew outlined his thoughts on Idah’s suitability to Nancy’s system:

“For me, a striker who is going to go and score those chances. The big thing that they have is that desire to score goals – when you have that desire, and that instinct (which Kenny doesn’t have), you go and put that in the net.”

Kevin Thomson added: “Doesn’t Idah do better in a Nancy team? I know he isn’t there now. That profile of a striker.”

Mulgrew responded: “I will be honest with you. He can’t do any worse.”

The pair reflected on Idah’s style and potential impact, with Thomson noting: “Funny when you think of Idah. I know he had a lot of disappointing games, and the Celtic fans weren’t really having him. Another player who didn’t have loads and loads of time.”

Mulgrew added: “Sometimes I think, when you are injured, or you are let go, you always become a better player when people look back at him and go, ‘Oh, we miss him.’ I still think Celtic’s forward line would improve with Idah in there.”

Idah, now at Swansea City, is slowly finding his feet in Wales. He has scored three goals in 18 appearances, including a last-gasp winner against Wrexham, though he is yet to secure a regular starting role, echoing his experience in Glasgow.