Celtic could be set for a number of changes in the side following comments made by Ange Postecoglou about Josip Juranovic.
Speaking last week (as quoted by The Glasgow Times), the Celtic boss provided a promising update on Juranovic as he was kept out of their recent game against Aberdeen with an illness, stating that he should have been available for the match this past weekend in the Scottish Cup, and if not, he would “definitely be back for the midweek fixture next week”.
He did not appear against Raith Rovers, and as expected, he will be in contention to face Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League tonight, with Postecoglou confirming so ahead of the game, whilst also noting that Mikey Johnston and Yosuke Ideguchi will not be available.
But what sort of impact will his return have on the Celtic side should he feature against the Norwegian outfit? We look at what might happen to the side as a whole, but also examine the impact it could have on one of his teammates in particular.
Lighten the load
Whilst predominantly a right-back for the majority of his career, Juranovic had found himself being utilised in multiple areas under Postecoglou, from left-back to defensive midfield and even right-wing. And that versatility could serve him well in this Celtic side.
With wideman Johnston and central midfielder Ideguchi unavailable, he could step into either man’s spot for the game at Celtic Park and really make things easier for the Celtic boss knowing he has someone he can rely on to do a role even if it’s something that he isn’t naturally suited to.
A boost for Ralston
Would you play Juranovic in midfield?
Yes
No
Anthony Ralston and Juranovic have been fighting it out for the same position in the side all season, though that hasn’t been as prominent as the past few weeks, with the two men in and out of the side constantly.
The statistics from this season show that they are pretty evenly matched in terms of what they bring to the table, with Ralston having more clearances and blocks per game, while Juranovic has more interceptions. Elsewhere, they are level in terms of tackles per game (all stats via WhoScored).
But if Juranovic is pushed into midfield or elsewhere on the pitch, then it might just give Ralston the opportunity that he needs to secure his place in the side moving forward without the worry of having the Croatian breathing down his neck for a space in the side.
In other news: Lost possession 18 times, given a 5.6 rating: Celtic loanee has had an absolute stinker