Ferencvaros v Celtic: Four things we learned


Celtic bounced back from their mundane performance against Livingston on Saturday with a thrillingly exciting, at least in an attacking sense, performance away from home in Europe. The Hoops got the job done with a 3-2 victory over Ferencvaros which secured European football after Christmas. 

Here is four things we learned from the match. 


Liel Abada looks revitalised after a deserved rest 

After spending some time on the sidelines, Liel Abada came back to the fore tonight. The Israeli set up Kyogo Furuhashi for Celtic’s opener with a neat cutback and clinically finished from the Japanese’s pass to all but wrap up three points for Celtic in Hungary. Abada looks rejuvenated and refreshed after dropping to the bench in recent weeks in order to recharge his batteries; something which is crucial for a twenty year old player. 


Josip Juranovic needs a chance at right back

Playing at left back, Josip Juranovic was characteristically tidy in his overall play. The Croatian was unfortunate that Ferencvaros got their first goal of the game through a deflection which came off himself although I believe Juranovic overpowered this negative with his performance. The twenty six year old is consistent, week in, week out, at left back and I believe he’d be even better if deployed at his natural right back although the tremendous form of Anthony Ralston is ultimately preventing this from happening. 


Stephen Welsh can more than suffice at centre back 

With Carl Starfelt missing through injury this evening, Stephen Welsh was drafted in to replace the Swedish International in the heart of the Celtic defence. Starfelt was on an ample run of form leading up to his absence although Welsh stood up to the plate with a mature performance that was beyond his years. The twenty one year old completed the most passes in the match however had to be retracted late on in the game due to a knock. In spite of this, Welsh will surely be in the lineup once again when Celtic face Dundee at Dens Park on Sunday at noon.  


Kyogo’s link up play is immense 

Not only is he a goalscorer, but Kyogo Furuhashi is also exceptional in linking up the play. His pass to set up Liel Abada for Celtic’s third was particularly delightful. In addition, the Japanese got Celtic going early on with a sublime turn and finish. The twenty six year old was brought off on seventy minutes presumably to rest him for Sunday. 


As mentioned, Celtic take on Dundee on Sunday. Ange Postecoglou will look to get his side back to winning ways in the league after a crucial three points in the Europa League. 


Thank you for reading this article. If you have any opinions, leave a comment below. Also, don’t forget to follow me on Twitter @Josh_Footblog. 

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