Celtic urged to unleash dangerous new attacking weapon

Celtic travel to Perth tonight to take on St Johnstone, with Martin O’Neill’s side looking to maintain their impressive beginning to the Scottish Premiership season.

The manager nevertheless has several selection decisions to make, with injuries, international commitments and the arrival of new players complicating his plans.

One of the biggest questions surrounds teenage forward Shim Mheuka and whether O’Neill will hand the Chelsea loanee his first Celtic start.

Mheuka has already caught the eye during substitute appearances against Aberdeen and St Mirren, with his display against the Buddies particularly encouraging despite having a goal ruled out.

Ryan believes the youngster has shown enough to warrant a starting opportunity in Perth.

“He’s a player who really excites me and I’d like to see more of him,” Ryan said. “His appearances from the bench have given me a taste of what he can offer, especially against St Mirren when he had that goal disallowed.

“I think tonight could be the perfect opportunity to unleash him against St Johnstone.”

Josh is similarly impressed by what he has seen from the young striker, despite Mheuka only being used sparingly so far.

“He’s only come off the bench twice, but he looks really, really good,” Josh said. “He’s made an extremely positive first impression.”

Celtic will also have to cope without Yang Hyun-jun, who has left the squad to represent South Korea at the Asian Games.

His growing importance to the team has been highlighted by his absence, with McGinlay pointing out that discussions about how much Celtic could miss the winger underline the progress he has made.

Summer arrival Mika Bauer has also emerged as an intriguing option for O’Neill in midfield. Despite being just 22, the new signing has quickly displayed a level of composure and authority that has impressed those watching him.

McGinlay praised Bauer’s passing range and willingness to compete, while predicting that the midfielder will continue to improve as his involvement increases.

Attention will also be on the threat posed by St Johnstone striker Josh Fowler.

Fowler has enjoyed an excellent opening to the campaign and has already established himself as one of the main attacking dangers Celtic must deal with.

“Josh Fowler has had a really, really strong start to the season,” McGinlay said. “He’s someone Celtic will have to keep quiet tonight.”

With Mheuka pushing for a first start, Yang unavailable and Bauer continuing to settle into midfield, O’Neill has plenty to consider as Celtic look to maintain their place at the top of the Premiership.