Chris Sutton slams Celtic tactical tweaks as personnel adjustments aren't 'helping' Jekyll and Hyde Hoops duo
Martin O’Neill made two changes at half time during their draw against Dundee United
Celtic icon Chris Sutton believes the decision to bring Kasper Hogh off at half time against Dundee United ‘isn’t helping’ the striker - or fellow forward Camilo Duran.
The attacking duo were arguably Celtic’s most high-profile signings in the summer but have endured varying fortunes thus far. Duran’s opener in the 2-2 stalemate at home to United marked his 10th goal in 17 Hoops appearances, meanwhile Hogh is yet to find the target since his first half hat-trick against Kilmarnock 82 days ago.
As Celtic’s most expensive ever player, it’s no surprise manager Martin O’Neill keeps trying to shoehorn Hogh into the starting XI despite his difficult start. However, when the Dane is deployed through the middle, it means Duran is forced out wide on the right flank and not in his natural position.
Why didn’t the half time substitution of Hogh help Celtic?
Hogh started as the lone striker in the United stalemate, but was brought off for winger Jota at half time when the visitors overturned the opener. Arguably, the attacking switch-up worked as Duran returned to his preferred role at number nine and Jota registered the assist for defender Liam Scales’ equaliser. However, Sutton doesn’t believe the chopping and changing is ‘helping’ anyone.
He said via X: “Playing Kasper Hogh and hooking him off after 45 minutes isn’t helping him and isn’t helping Celtic and isn’t helping Camilo Duran…”
What did O’Neill make of Hogh’s performance?
While the goals have dried up for the £11m man, he has unselfishly registered a few assists in recent weeks, including Duran’s opener on Wednesday night. O’Neill, who also brought off forward Callum Osmand for winger Haissem Hassan at the break, defended his striker after the game - and claimed the decision to bring him off was purely to inject a bit more energy.
The Celtic boss said: “I thought we needed it. Young Callum Osmand, his natural position is a striker or playing alongside somebody that’s got a bit of strength. I’ve been really pleased with him. But we made the changes. Kasper again I thought worked really hard in the match for us. He set up the goal for us as well too.
“But we just wanted a change and we thought we’re going to go wide with the two players who can take people on. Yeah sometimes you’re gambling as well too. So as I said to you about United on the break. And then one occasion we played a short corner, lost it and Mika Baur makes a fantastic effort to get back and save the night for us. But yeah, we’re still pleased with the team.”