Sport nationChris Sutton Reacts to Celtic’s Win Over Ross County and Paulo Bernardo ‘Argument’
Celtic have begun a hectic winter period in a strong manner. Their performance against Club Brugge in the Champions League in midweek was disappointing, but it’s still a healthy point for the team.
After scoring four goals at Tynecastle in one half last week, Celtic scored five goals in 45 minutes against Ross County on Saturday afternoon and walked away with three points. This means that the Bhoys have a five-point lead at the top of the Premiership table, and they visit second-placed Aberdeen on Wednesday night.
Given the number of games Celtic have to deal with, it’s a huge chance for Brendan Rodgers to open up a cushion between himself and the rest of the league during these coming weeks. If that happens, then the team can rotate more freely and concentrate more on making noises in the Champions League, because knockout football awaits the champions post-Christmas.
One of the reasons that can happen is because of Celtic’s bench strength, and Chris Sutton touched upon it after the thumping win over County. Sutton discussed the duo’s roles in the team and how there is an ‘argument’ amongst the fanbase about whether Bernardo should be starting more matches.
Luke McCowan produced a Man of the Match performance, whilst Paulo Bernardo was on the scoresheet again and proving why Celtic paid £3.5 million for his services this summer. Added to that, the legendary striker explained how McCowan has been a ‘revelation’ since moving from Dundee and he is another example of the quality Rodgers has to call upon.
“McCowan, again, making an impact,” said Sutton. “He has been a revelation since he signed for Celtic. Maybe so (unlucky not to have more minutes). But Celtic’s strength in depth.”
“There is an argument amongst the Celtic supporters whether Bernardo should be starting more games than he is. I think it’s the time of year when the squad is stretched. Celtic are in a really good position that they have really good competition for places, especially in the middle of the park.”
“Bernardo, when he has come on and had his little cameos, he has looked particularly sharp and took his goal well there. It was comfortable. I just wondered, after the draw against Brugge, whether there would be changes and how Celtic would respond. But the changes made the difference. I think we will see a lot of this – three games (a week) – chopping and changing from Brendan Rodgers.”
Paulo Bernardo’s Stats Against Ross County
At the end of the day, Bernardo can only produce when handed the chance and do his talking on the field of play. Yes, Arne Engels has struggled at times, and it’s valid to suggest that the young Portuguese star should be starting more.
WhoScored rated Bernardo’s performance against Ross County at a very impressive 8.65.
Shots Goals Key Passes Passes PA% Aerials won Touches Rating
3 1 4 48 87.5 2 72 8.65
But the hectic fixture list probably means Rodgers will be forced to rotate anyway, so last season’s loan star will be handed more chances. It’s just a case of whether or not – for the big games – like Aberdeen away, the League Cup final, and the Champions League, if Bernardo is the starter because he now has an argument that he should be starting alongside Reo Hatate and Callum McGregor.
The Implications for Celtic
The implications for Celtic are clear. The team has a five-point lead at the top of the Premiership table, and their next match against Aberdeen will be crucial in maintaining their lead.
Celtic’s bench strength is a significant factor in their success this season. The team has a number of players who can come in and make an impact, and this has been evident in their performances against Ross County and Club Brugge.
The team’s ability to rotate and still maintain a high level of performance is a testament to the quality of the squad. Celtic’s manager, Brendan Rodgers, has done an excellent job in building a team that can compete on multiple fronts.
The Implications for Ross County
The defeat for Ross County was a harsh reminder of the gap between them and the top teams in the Scottish Premiership. Ross County boss Don Cowie was full of praise for Celtic’s relentless performance, saying that they were “top-quality” and that his team felt the full force of their attack.
Ross County will need to regroup and refocus ahead of their next match. They will be looking to bounce back from this heavy defeat and get back to winning ways.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chris Sutton reacted to Celtic’s win over Ross County and Paulo Bernardo ‘argument’ by praising the team’s bench strength and the quality of the squad. Sutton discussed the duo’s roles in the team and how there
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