Airdrieonians legend Jimmy Boyle has suggested Gary Mackay-Steven can make the difference for Celtic.
Former Celtic youth player Jimmy Boyle has told the Daily Record that he’s excited about watch Gary Mackay-Steven play for the Bhoys next season.
The Airdrieonians legend has suggested that the midfielder has that special something extra, which could make the difference for Ronny Deila’s team over the next 12 months.
He’s had a slow start to his Celtic career, but only arrived at Parkhead last winter as a cup-tied player, which restricted the number of potential appearances he could make.
“Gary is a very hard-working boy and deserves the moves he’s had. Hopefully he will be able to push on,” he said.
“Gary’s got that wee bit extra and something different that causes problems for defences. He can create lots of chances and score goals.”
“I’m really looking forward to watching him next season. He excites people and he is the type of player fans love going to see.”
It’s difficult for Mackay-Steven because Deila has a settled midfield and a specific system that the player needs to adhere to in order to get regular game time.
Fortunately, he does have the ability to play down either side of the team as a winger and doesn’t have to deal with the competition for some of the places centrally.
If he can keep his head down and work hard over the summer, there’s no reason he can’t start games in pre-season and show Deila why he’s the man who should be patrolling one wing when the competitive action starts up again.
Deila is going to be watching his squad closely over the next couple of months to see how certain players react and who’s showing that extra level of determination to step up and give him a problem in terms of team selection. Mackay-Steven is definitely one.
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