Cards on the table, I am a big James Forrest fan. The winger has been involved hugely in Celtic’s recent successes and he is one of the club’s most decorated players.
He is also massively undervalued by some of the Celtic support which I think is a shame. He is, and still continues to be so important to Celtic.
I had written a piece yesterday saying that Daizen Maeda should be benched (yes, I know!) to be rested for the Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.
In that piece, I said James Forrest’s experience could be used instead. I posted the piece on social media and the reaction to the suggestion that Forrest should play shocked me.
However, what didn’t shock me is how Celtic boss, Brendan Rodgers values the experienced 32-year-old winger.
What did Brendan Rodgers say about Celtic’s James Forrest?
The Celtic manager was very complimentary about Forrest. In fat, after his contribution to the Hearts win, Rodgers said the winger was ‘brilliant’ and should be used as a role model for the youngsters at the club.
Rodgers said [Daily Mail], “I also thought James Forrest was brilliant when he came into the game. We don’t have a winger as bright as him in our squad yet and I told the young guys afterwards to learn from him.
“The players in the periphery are so important for us.”
MORE CELTIC STORIES
Forrest offers Celtic a different option. Just every other fringe player does at the club. But, not only that, he also helps the young players settle in at the club as well.
In the build-up to Forrest’s testimonial match, McGregor said of Forrest [Celtic FC], “He’s a total professional.
“And he kind of shows the way for the young lads and new lads coming in as well. So, you know, a hugely important part of the club’s success and it’s only right that we acknowledge that in the best way possible.”
So the next time anyone doubts the value of Forrest’s contribution to Celtic, think of what Rodgers and McGregor said about him and appreciate just what a wonderful player Celtic have at the club.
In other news, ‘He will admit’: Brendan Rodgers explains why ‘exciting’ 20-year-old is struggling at Celtic