Kris Boyd singles out Celtic star Arne Engels after emphatic 5-1 win over Kilmarnock

Kasper Høgh naturally stole most of the headlines after the club-record signing announced himself with a hat-trick at Rugby Park. However, Celtic produced several impressive individual displays, with Arne Engels arguably the standout performer behind the Danish striker.

The Belgian midfielder was given plenty of freedom in the centre of the pitch and used it to excellent effect, dictating the tempo and repeatedly picking out Celtic’s attacking players in dangerous areas.

It was another reminder of why Celtic have placed such a high valuation on the 22-year-old, with West Ham continuing their attempts to bring him to the Premier League.

The London club have already seen two offers rejected and are expected to return with a third bid, while Celtic are reportedly seeking a fee of around £25 million.

For now, though, Engels remains an important part of Martin O’Neill’s plans, and his display at Kilmarnock showed why the club are reluctant to let him leave.

Celtic dominated from the opening whistle, creating an impressive 5.6 expected goals and finding the net five times in a performance that fully justified the scoreline.

Kris Boyd was particularly impressed with what he saw from the Hoops.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Rangers striker praised Celtic’s attacking display and singled out Engels for special recognition.

“If you give Celtic opportunities and space and time on the ball, they’ll punish you.

“Nygren got on the ball, Arne Engels was exceptional today. The front players – exceptional. Celtic were outstanding going forward.”

Engels’ performance will also have been encouraging for O’Neill amid the uncertainty surrounding the midfielder’s future.

Despite West Ham’s continued interest, Engels started the match and delivered a performance that highlighted exactly what Celtic could be missing should they eventually agree to a sale.

His ability to carry the ball forward, pick out incisive passes and contribute defensively was evident throughout, while his composure helped Celtic maintain control of a match they dominated from beginning to end.

It was arguably one of Engels’ strongest performances since arriving in Glasgow and a timely reminder of his importance to the team.

If Celtic can retain Engels, provide O’Neill with the reinforcements he wants and reproduce the attacking intensity shown at Rugby Park, there will be plenty of reasons for supporters to feel optimistic about what lies ahead.