Miquel Nelom may not improve Celtic’s first XI but he would offer versatility, consistency and valuable cover.
The sudden nature of Emilio Izaguirre’s move to Middle Eastern moneybags Al-Fayha left Celtic rather light at left-back.
Kieran Tierney, brilliant though he is, is currently the only senior left-back on the club’s books and, with a long season ahead and Celtic seeking to go far in four separate competitions, cover would be well received.
While Nelom may not be a household name on British shores, and is something of an unknown quantity compared to some of the other left-backs linked with Celtic this summer including Bristol City’s Joe Bryan and former Leeds United youngster Charlie Taylor, he could be an astute addition for a variety of reasons.
First and foremost, Nelom helped Feyenoord stay the course impressively and earn their first Eredivisie title since 1999 last season. At Celtic, where success is non-negotiable, that experience could prove invaluable.
Super sub
Furthermore, the 26-year-old is a versatile defender, capable of playing at centre-half. Considering that midfielder Nir Bitton has been forced to drop into the back four due to injuries to Erik Sviatchenko and Dedryck Boyata, Nelom’s adaptability would certainly come in handy.
And, finally, Nelom would move to Celtic knowing that he is likely to play a supporting role to prized asset Tierney. Though it’s unlikely he would throw his toys out of the pram.
After all, Nelom has spent the last two seasons as something of a bit-part player for Feyenoord, starting just 24 Eredivisie games with Terence Kongolo, who has since joined Monaco, the club’s first choice left-back.
Consistent and versatile, Nelom is a valued and useful member of Feyenoord’s squad despite his lack of first-team action. He could prove equally invaluable at Celtic.
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