Pundit Exclusive: Never-before-seen player tipped for Celtic debut amid big Covid updates | OneFootball

Noel Whelan tips Cameron Harper to be handed his Celtic debut this season with a number of players currently self-isolating due to Covid-19.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, the former Aberdeen and Leeds United striker told fans to “watch this space” as Neil Lennon could throw the 18-year-old “in at the deep end” soon.

Hoops stars Ryan Christie, Odsonne Edouard, Nir Bitton and Hatem Abd Elhamed are all currently isolating as a result of Covid-19.

Harper is yet to make a senior appearance for the Bhoys but has made the bench for league matches against Dundee and Motherwell, as well as the European tie against Ferencvaros.

Whelan suggested that the winger’s debut is just around the corner.

“It is an important season but you can never turn a blind eye to a good, young talent,” he told Football Insider.

“There will always be injuries, suspensions and people catching Covid. He might be used but Neil Lennon will know that he has got a great prospect that he could throw in at the deep end this season if needed.

“Young players would relish that opportunity because that is the next progression for them. Neil Lennon will want these young players to put pressure on the first team. That is what it is all about. That is where Lennon started.

“You cannot have too much respect for the first team players. Admire them but push them because you want their space.

“Lennon wants competition for places and he has shown that he can do it at the youth levels for both club and country. Watch this space because Cameron Harper may break through this season.”

In other Celtic news, it can be REVEALED that West Ham have made a move to blow Hoops out of the water for £10m-valued ace.