Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie has called for Benjamin Nygren to be repositioned as a central forward, describing the Swedish international as a “waste of space” in midfield.
McAvennie argues that Nygren’s goal scoring ability makes him a logical candidate to lead the line, particularly given the continued failure of specialist strikers to deliver consistent results. “I am going to mention Nygren; he should play centre-forward,” McAvennie stated on his podcast. “Because if he doesn’t score, he brings nothing to the team.”
The criticism of Nygren’s midfield contributions was pointed. “When he is playing in midfield, he doesn’t play there,” McAvennie continued. “So, there is a man down. He can score goals, so play him up front. Just give him a chance. We are going into the last seven games. He is a waste of space in the midfield. He really is a man down. So, play him up there or don’t play him at all.”
McAvennie highlighted technical limitations that he believes restrict Nygren’s effectiveness in deeper positions, noting the player has “a horrible touch” and lacks awareness, though he acknowledged his strengths around the penalty area in one and two touch situations.
The suggestion reflects Celtic’s broader striking crisis. Despite 71 appearances from various forwards across all competitions this season, the club’s specialist strikers have managed just 16 goals between them. Kelechi Iheanacho’s return to the starting lineup against Dundee United failed to prevent another defeat, while Daizen Maeda, Tomas Cvancara, Junior Adamu and the departed Johnny Kenny have all been tried without establishing a reliable solution.
Nygren has contributed 19 goals and 7 assists in 49 appearances this season, though primarily from attacking midfield and wide positions rather than as a traditional number nine. With seven matches remaining and the title slipping away, McAvennie believes a tactical gamble may be necessary to salvage the campaign.