Nir Bitton has been told he can leave Celtic – and being overshadowed by Eboue Kouassi won’t help his chances of changing Brendan Rodgers’ mind.
After making the headlines for all the wrong reasons with a horrific league debut against Dundee, Eboue Kouassi (yes, in that order) has now emphatically answered any questions about why Celtic bought him, the Daily Record reports.
Brendan Rodgers’ side were well below par in Wednesday’s home draw with Partick Thistle, Ade Azeez ensuring the visitors avoided defeat at Parkhead for the first time in 23 years. Yet, Eboue’s performance at least meant the supporters could take something away from a somewhat hungover display from the recently crowned champions.
Making his long-awaited first start since arriving from Russian outfit Kuban Krasnodar in January, the Ivorian was a composed and competent presence in the centre of the park.
Eager to receive balls on the half turn, distribute efficiently and power away from opponents with a burst of acceleration, Eboue looked a different player entirely to the nervy young midfielder who caused such concern among supporters after a debut so poor he drew comparisons with the infamous Amido Balde.
One player who may be rather less enamoured by the teenager’s steady improvement, however, is Nir Bitton. The Israeli international has been bumped down the pecking order by Eboue’s arrival and, according to The Scottish Sun, Rodgers has made clear that he is no longer an integral part of the club’s plans.
Bitton may have been given the chance to start alongside Eboue against Partick but, with the 19-year-old overshadowing him in the centre of the park, that may have made Rodgers’ decision even easier.
The towering midfielder told the Daily Record earlier in the season that he wanted to stay and fight for his place at Celtic Park. But, with Eboue proving his worth, he may not be given that chance.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
