Ronny Deila has explained that although Patrick Roberts has a tough competitor in the form of Gary Mackay-Steven, the new signing may still make his full Celtic debut against Hamilton Academical tomorrow night.
Roberts, who joined the Hoops from Manchester City on an 18-month loan deal during the January transfer window, has thus far made just a solitary senior appearance for the Scottish champions when he came on as a late substitute for Mackay-Steven in the 3-0 win over Inverness CT last week.
But Mackay-Steven has been in great form in recent weeks, with the winger netting four times and providing two assists in his last seven appearances in all competitions.
And Deila, who insisted that Roberts is ready to make his first start for Celtic, however, was quick to remind everyone about Mackay-Steven’s recent impressive outings.
“Is Patrick ready to start a game? Of course he’s ready, it’s just about finding the right moment”, he said in his pre-match press conference.
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“It could be at the weekend, we’ll see. But also Gary has scored a lot of goals lately and done well so it’s a tough competition there as well.”
Roberts, whose present contract with Manchester City runs until 2020, joined the Citizens from Fulham in the summer.
