OPINION
Most football clubs have a clearly defined number one goalkeeper and perhaps one or two backup options for the manager to choose from – but at Celtic that is not the case.
Brendan Rodgers is fortunate enough to find himself with two quality options between the sticks in the shape of Craig Gordon and Scott Bain, the more experienced of the pair finding himself with more game time under his belt this season.
However it was 27-year-old Bain who was given the chance to shine in the clash against St Mirren and while he was hardly tested by the visitors to Parkhead in the Hoops’ 4-0 win, Rodgers was left raving over his game changing qualities.
Hinting at a run in the first team for the former Dundee man, the boss told the Scottish Sun: “I’ve got two very good goalkeepers and I’m giving Scott a little run because I know what Craig can do.
“He also really helps the speed of our game because he gets it out quickly. I’ve got very good goalkeepers and whichever one I play will always contribute well.”
The truth of the matter is both are excellent shot stoppers, as proven by their fine displays this season, but while Gordon is the man with more experience, the ability to start attacks quicker makes Bain the more desirable.
The Hoops need to be looking for any advantage they can get to sink their rivals and Bain’s ability at delivering the ball out of his hands or at his feet is a commodity Gordon just does not offer – which is why there should be no discussion about who starts in goal.
Gordon needs to have the axe permanently swung on his head, relegating him to the bench, while Bain, who is going to be the Bhoys’ long term shot stopper anyway, builds a constant relationship with his defenders in the starting XI.
Rodgers has admitted the 27-year-old’s advantage over his counterpart – now it is time to take action.