Daniel Arzani returned to Celtic this season.
Australian international Daniel Arzani returned to Celtic this season for the second year of his loan spell.
The first year could not have gone worse, with the exciting talent suffering a torn ACL just weeks into his season.
Arzani is being eased back, and has not yet featured for the first team this season.
Even last year he played only 23 minutes before his injury.
Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer told Goal this week that he disagreed with Arzani’s decision to join Celtic in the first place.
There is certainly an argument that Celtic might not be the best club for Arzani right now, as he needs minutes. But if it is simply game time and an easy life he was after, he should have joined Dundee or St Mirren.
Celtic have a big squad, and several options out on the wing, so Arzani will not just be thrown in. Patience will be needed.
But this can work to Arzani’s advantage. Celtic are not in a position where they need to rush him, and so are unlikely to make mistakes.
Players coming off serious injuries must be managed sensibly. Celtic are in a position where they are able to do that.
Arzani will train with Celtic’s first team squad, he will play development squad matches, and when he is deemed ready, he will be slowly integrated into the team.
The high bar set by Celtic’s other wide options means he will have to play well too.
These are hurdles Arzani must overcome. If he can rise to the challenge, he will be better for it. And if not, he will still be better for having tried.
There is an exciting reward for Arzani’s efforts, potential silverware and European football. He just needs to push himself to the limit.
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