Gordon Dalziel Identifies Celtic’s Major Problem Amid Aberdeen Draw
Former Celtic striker Gordon Dalziel has pinpointed the club’s significant issue following their 2-2 draw with Aberdeen at Celtic Park. The Scottish Premiership leaders were held to a draw despite taking a 2-0 lead, with the Dons fighting back to share the spoils.
Dalziel believes Celtic’s major problem lies in their reliance on centre-back Cameron Carter-Vickers. The American defender’s absence has exposed weaknesses in the Hoops’ defense, particularly in the partnership between Liam Scales and Auston Trusty.
“Celtic’s big problem is… Carter-Vickers is so important to the [centre-back] partnership, because when he plays with Scales, Scales has been brilliant for Celtic,” Dalziel said on Clyde 1’s Superscoreboard. “Now, maybe when Carter-Vickers plays with Trusty… but what it tells me is Carter-Vickers is such an important part of that defensive team.”
Dalziel dismissed criticism of left-back Alex Valle, instead highlighting Carter-Vickers’ influence on the team’s defensive dynamics. The former striker suggests that Carter-Vickers’ presence elevates the performances of his defensive partners, making Scales and potentially Trusty more effective.
Carter-Vickers’ injury has kept him sidelined for the past three league fixtures, and his return is eagerly anticipated. Celtic faces Atalanta in the Champions League midweek, and his availability could be crucial.
The draw against Aberdeen has raised concerns about Celtic’s defensive vulnerabilities, and Dalziel’s assessment underscores the importance of Carter-Vickers in shoring up the backline.
As the Scottish Premiership continues, Celtic’s ability to cope without Carter-Vickers will be closely watched. Manager Brendan Rodgers will need to find solutions to mitigate the defender’s absence and maintain the team’s momentum.
Dalziel’s comments echo the sentiments of many Celtic fans, who recognize Carter-Vickers’ value to the team. The defender’s leadership and organizational skills are vital components of Celtic’s defensive setup.
With Carter-Vickers’ return imminent, Celtic will look to regain their defensive solidity and maintain their position at the top of the Scottish Premiership.