Celtic still have to get there but a Europa League run could be just what the young loanee needs.
When Celtic signed Odsonne Edouard on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, he will have known it would not be easy to usurp Leigh Griffiths and Moussa Dembele in the Bhoys’ pecking order. However he could yet get the chance to prove his worth if Brendan Rodgers’ side qualify for the latter stages of the Europa League.
A third-place finish in their Champions League group will ensure that is the case, and Celtic are well placed to get there after defeating Anderlecht earlier this season. At that point, Rodgers could unleash Edouard in a competition that could see him do what he has failed to thus far.
The 19-year-old was never going to be first or second choice option for Celtic in Europe’s elite competition. However the Europa League is a different kettle of fish and if Rodgers wants to see what the striker can do, giving him a shot in the competition may benefit all concerned.
It will give Edouard the chance to play in a more familiar style of football and will show Celtic whether he can cut it long-term as a Bhoys player.
Any fine performances in Europe’s second competition could also grant the young forward more opportunities in the Scottish Premiership.
Signing a young unproven striker on loan is always a risk, for the player as much as the club, but Celtic could soon offer Edouard the platform he needs to kick on.
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