Former Celtic striker Andy Walker has offered his advice to Brendan Rodgers, urging the Irishman to stick with Paulo Bernardo.
Bernardo’s loan spell has had its highs and lows, with his goal against Rangers at Celtic Park in December being the biggest high, but in recent weeks, the Portuguese midfielder’s performances have dropped significantly.
Whether he can yet again silence critics remains to be seen, but after his impressive performances before the winter break, he has shown glimpses of a player who could contribute significantly.
Walker said [The Go Radio Football Show], “I would persevere with Bernardo. I thought around that Christmas/New Year time when he got the big lift scoring against Rangers.
“He had a goal at St Mirren, he had a goal at Dundee. I think he’s looked the part. Callum McGregor is your captain. He’s your leader.
“And he may have dropped off but I think he can always come good again. O’Riley can come good again. And you need to, I think, persevere with Palma, persevere with Maeda and Kyogo through the middle.
“But I do recognise Celtic have brought in this big, tall, physical striker and they seem to be playing him, it’s just different to watch.”
Walker also backs Luis Palma, who in recent weeks has frustrated supporters with his lack of end product and, at times, has simply become too predictable in his wing play, looking to cut inside at almost every opportunity.
Both players, despite Walker’s words of praise, won’t start today, with Daizen Maeda and Tomoki Iwata instead being favoured against Motherwell at Fir Park.
With the pressure now on Celtic after falling five points behind Rangers yesterday, today’s game is undoubtedly vital in building momentum, with 12 league games remaining for the Hoops.
