Exclusive: Pundit suggests Celtic player may feel ‘Like a new signing’ after recent sighting | OneFootball

Noel Whelan suggested Celtic attacker Daniel Arzani may feel like a new signing for Neil Lennon after his appearance against Partick Thistle.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Laura O’Leary, the ex-striker admitted that Arzani could end up stopping Lennon dipping into the transfer market to improve his squad.

The 21-year-old replaced Tom Rogic in the 85th minute of the Hoops’ 2-1 win over Partick Thistle on Saturday in order to make his first appearance of the season.

Arzani has only managed a total of two appearances for the Hoops since joining the club on loan from Manchester City due to a serious knee injury.

Whelan pointed out the Hoops winger now has an opportunity to prove himself to Lennon as he could convince him that he can play a part in the rest of the season.

When asked if Lennon giving Arzani game time is an unexpected boost for the player as he may feel like the 21-year-old is an ace up his sleeve, Whelan told Football Insider: “Well yeah, as you’d think to yourself, do I need to spend money on this position?

“If he can do a job, he doesn’t need to go out into the transfer market.

“So it’s a good opportunity for Neil to see players he hasn’t seen much of and it’s an opportunity for the players to say ‘hey you don’t need to buy anybody else’ I can do a job.

“It’s down to the player, it’s up to the player to convince Lennon that he doesn’t need anyone else in that position and that you’re good enough to fight for a place.

“And I’m there, available and ready.

“Neil will know he’s in a fight for this title, he needs quality players and to be able to use their squad, as they’re in every cup at the minute so there’s a lot of games for Celtic to play.

“It’s a great opportunity for Neil, and the player may feel like a new signing.”

The Hoops’ loan deal with Manchester City regarding Arzani is due to expire at the end of the season.

The 21-year-old, who has six caps for Australia, joined Man City from Melbourne City in 2018 and his contract with the Premier League club isn’t due to expire until 2021.

In other Celtic news, Paul Robinson gushes about senior Hoops player who is proving a point with his performances.