Celtic are set to participate in their first pre-season friendly tonight despite a distinct lack of new faces in Brendan Rodgers’ squad.
John Kennedy confirmed that work is ongoing to secure new arrivals; nevertheless, Brendan Rodgers’ sole focus for now will be seeing how his squad fare against Ayr United at Somerset Park.
While supporters wait for deals to come to fruition, they will be intrigued to see if any internal figures impress in preparatory fixtures as Celtic build up to their Scottish Premiership opener against Kilmarnock on August 4th.
Fringe players will likely gain a rare outing in green and white at Ayr and once the Queens Park match comes around next Wednesday. With a sparsity of bodies in one or two areas, they may also be granted a chance to star in the Bhoys’ tour of the United States against DC United, Manchester City and Chelsea.
Bosun Lawal is among the hopefuls who will be in the running for minutes, and there is excitement surrounding his potential at Parkhead.
Bosun Lawal’s Celtic audition in pre-season
Republic of Ireland Under-21 international Lawal played a starring role on loan at Fleetwood Town last term, registering six goals and two assists in 47 appearances.
Notably, he featured in midfield for much of the campaign, which may have come as a surprise to some Celtic supporters. Nevertheless, the former Watford youth combined his strong running, technical skill and vision to earn rave reviews south of the border.
Lawal is now 21 and has quantifiable senior experience under his belt. Movement is also expected in Rodgers’ engine room this summer, which may work to his advantage.
Paulo Bernardo is waiting in the wings at Benfica for Celtic to try to reach an agreement on a permanent transfer; meanwhile, intense speculation over Matt O’Riley’s future isn’t likely to cease anytime soon.
Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate are on an extended summer break following their international exploits in the close season, leaving an opening for Lawal to make a case for first-team involvement.
Celtic supporters will be keeping a close eye on his performances against Ayr and Queens Park, knowing there could be an extended chance for the Irishman to shine in pre-season should his audition stand up to scrutiny.