John Hartson Backs James Forrest to Start as He Criticises Celtic’s Fighting Spirit
Former Celtic striker John Hartson has called for James Forrest to be restored to the starting lineup, describing the veteran winger as the only player who looks to take opponents on directly.
Hartson, who maintains high standards from his playing days, expressed frustration at the current team’s lack of intensity. “I would be playing James Forrest,” he stated on the Let Me Be Frank podcast. “I know he’s 57 years of age. I would play him. He’s the only one, for me, who is direct and looks to take players on.”
The Welshman’s criticism extended beyond individual selection to the collective mentality of Martin O’Neill’s squad. He observed that Celtic players “trudge off” looking like they have been “beat up,” accusing them of failing to compete properly. “They pull out of headers. Pull out of tackles. That’s not Celtic players you have seen in the past.”
Hartson contrasted the current side with previous generations, referencing Henrik Larsson’s consistent excellence. “You can’t be willy nilly. You can’t just turn it on when you want to turn it on. Larsson did it week in, week out. Year in and year out, and so did all the other players.”
The former striker acknowledged that good teams lose matches occasionally but insisted standards must remain high. “The man who is in charge now, Martin O’Neill, made sure that was the case. You have to play every single week.”
Celtic face Dundee on Sunday knowing defeat would effectively end their title hopes. They trail league leaders Hearts by five points with seven matches remaining, including crucial home fixtures against both Hearts and Rangers during the post-split phase.
Forrest, Celtic’s most decorated player, has made just two starts in 22 Premiership appearances this season, contributing one goal and one assist. Hartson suggested Sebastian Tounekti has shown promise on the opposite flank but needs to produce consistently.
The call for Forrest’s inclusion presents O’Neill with a tactical dilemma. Hyunjun Yang has been one of the season’s few bright sparks, particularly at home, meaning any recall for Forrest would likely require either displacing Yang or shifting the South Korean to the left wing.