As Celtic faced Dundee United at Tannadice, concerns over a makeshift defense dominated pre-match discussions. With key players like Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty sidelined due to illness, and Alistair Johnston nursing a knock, the defensive lineup was far from ideal. Tony Ralston, Stephen Welsh, and Liam Scales were tasked with keeping the opposition at bay—a setup that initially seemed risky. Yet, to the surprise of many, the defense held firm, earning well-deserved praise from manager Brendan Rodgers. Stephen Welsh, despite limited game time this season, delivered an impressive performance that showcased his resilience and adaptability.
While the defense exceeded expectations, Celtic’s attack faltered. Missing the creative spark of Nicolas Kuhn, the team struggled to break through Dundee United’s defensive lines. Daizen Maeda endured a frustrating outing, and Kyogo Furuhashi, typically reliable in front of goal, squandered a golden opportunity late in the game. His uncharacteristic miss left fans and pundits alike questioning the sharpness of the forward line. The absence of clinical finishing proved costly, as Celtic failed to convert possession into goals.
Young winger Yang Hyun-jun had a chance to shine in the absence of Nicolas Kuhn and James Forrest but failed to capitalize. Substitutes Luis Palma and Adam Idah also struggled to make an impact, adding to the team’s attacking woes. With the January transfer window approaching, this lackluster display will undoubtedly influence Brendan Rodgers’ plans. Reinforcements, particularly on the wings, appear increasingly necessary to bolster Celtic’s offensive options for the challenges ahead.
This lack of attacking cohesion is particularly concerning as the team prepares for crucial fixtures in the coming weeks. While the defense showed promise, the inability to score raises questions about the squad’s depth and effectiveness in high-pressure situations. Rodgers, an experienced manager, will likely use this performance to reassess his squad and make critical decisions ahead of the transfer window.
Ultimately, the goalless draw at Tannadice serves as a wake-up call for Celtic. While the defense proved resilient, the attacking unit needs significant improvement. With fans eager for success and rivals gaining momentum, Rodgers faces a pivotal moment in shaping the team’s fortunes for the remainder of the s
eason.