Sport nationCeltic’s Nicolas Kuhn Wins Over Critics with Stellar Form
Nicolas Kuhn’s transformation at Celtic has been nothing short of remarkable. The German winger’s impressive start to the season has silenced earlier doubters, including Sky Sports pundits James McFadden and Kris Boyd.
McFadden and Boyd had questioned Kuhn’s impact last season, citing his lack of explosive pace and tendency to play it safe. Boyd even suggested that Celtic fans might have wanted to return Kuhn, had they had the receipt.
However, Kuhn’s resurgence under Brendan Rodgers has changed their minds. “When he arrived, he was under pressure and he was brought in, everyone expected him, Jota had left, you are looking and thinking ‘he needs to perform’,” Boyd noted.
“It might have been the best thing to happen to him. He was getting a little bit of stick. Sometimes when you come in and everything is all rosy, you think ‘I have arrived’. Getting that criticism, then having to come back in summer and knowing ‘I have to work my socks off’. Probably not to get into the team, but back to a level of performance that have shown why Celtic wanted to bring him to the football club.”
McFadden echoed Boyd’s sentiments, highlighting Kuhn’s newfound confidence and explosive pace. “He is a player full fit and fully confident. You think back to last season, we didn’t see that explosive pace we told he had, but we didn’t see it. He was coming back. His first touch was always back. It was safe. He didn’t look to be taking risks.”
Kuhn’s statistics illustrate his remarkable improvement:
Last season:
- 9 Premiership appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist
- 5 Scottish Premiership Top Six Split appearances, 0 goals, 1 assist
- 4 SFA Cup appearances, 1 goal, 1 assist
This season:
- 10 Premiership appearances, 4 goals, 6 assists
- 4 UEFA Champions League appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist
- 3 League Cup appearances, 4 goals, 4 assists
Total: 17 appearances, 10 goals, 11 assists
Kuhn’s dental issues and Celtic’s inconsistent form last season contributed to his struggles. However, his pre-season preparations and Rodgers’ guidance have transformed his game.
As McFadden observed, “The pre-season has been exactly what he has needed because he is bringing the numbers, scoring goals and providing assists – he has shown he isn’t a one-trick pony.”
With Kuhn’s levels showing no signs of slowing, Celtic’s attacking prowess has received a significant boost. The German winger’s redemption story serves as a testament to his resilience and dedication.
Key Points:
- Nicolas Kuhn wins over critics with impressive form
- James McFadden and Kris Boyd change their minds on Kuhn’s ability
- Kuhn’s statistics show significant improvement from last season
- Dental issues and inconsistent form hindered Kuhn’s early Celtic career
- Brendan Rodgers’ guidance and pre-season preparations key to Kuhn’s resurgence
Sport nation
Amina Umar