Celtic's Goal Frenzy Raises Questions for Kasper Hogh
Celtic unleashed a sensational performance against Hearts, leaving many questions answered—except for one pressing issue.
What does this incredible seven-goal triumph mean for Kasper Hogh, the club’s record signing?
After being left on the bench during the match against last season's Scottish Premiership runners-up, Hogh watched as a thrilling front three of Camilo Duran, Callum Osmand, and Haissem Hassan tore apart the opposition.
Following a tough Europa League outing against Benfica, where Hogh was subbed off at halftime, manager Martin O'Neill expressed confidence that the 25-year-old could still reach 20 goals this season.
But is the £11m striker now battling to secure a starting position?
Hogh's confidence appears shaky, having scored just once in his 12 appearances—an impressive hat-trick against Kilmarnock back in August. O'Neill noted the importance of rebuilding that confidence as Celtic prepares for another Europa League clash with Celta Vigo.
"He has lost a bit of confidence, but we will get that back during the course of time," O'Neill remarked. "We have game after game after game between now and January, but he will score goals for us, there is no question about it."
Hogh did make an impact off the bench on Sunday, assisting Benjamin Nygren for Celtic’s seventh goal, and he had previously set up a goal in the 2-0 win against Motherwell. However, his outing in the 4-1 defeat in Lisbon has only fueled speculation about his place in the squad.
Former Celtic player Scott Allan weighed in on the debate, stating, "If I'm a creative player and I've got Duran and Hogh to pick from, I'm taking Duran every day of the week. He looks to get off the side of defenders."
In Lisbon, Hogh was substituted at halftime, allowing Duran to take over as the central figure of the attack. With Hassan and Osmand flanking him, the revamped frontline delivered a much-improved performance.
That same trio started against Hearts, and they proved too much for the visitors. Osmand's brace helped Celtic establish a commanding 5-1 lead by halftime, while Duran added another goal to his tally after the break.
It's almost impossible to imagine that an £11m signing wouldn’t be an automatic starter in a top Scottish side. However, fans were encouraged to see Hogh supporting Osmand as he exited the pitch at halftime, suggesting camaraderie even when not in the lineup.
Despite the victory, discussions around Hogh’s role remain. "There have been question marks over whether Celtic's best attack involves Hogh. For me, it doesn't," noted BBC Scotland pundit Andy Halliday.
Halliday acknowledged Hogh's potential, recalling his ability to score against elite teams in the Champions League. Yet, he emphasized that Duran is currently the one thriving, contributing to 14 goals in just 15 games from various positions.
O'Neill has indicated Duran prefers to play centrally, raising further questions about Hogh's future. Halliday pointed out Duran's all-around game, marking a stark contrast to Hogh's current form.
"O'Neill still believes Hogh will score 20 goals this season. Given his past, it’s hard to doubt him. But right now, he isn’t doing enough to be part of Celtic's attack," Halliday concluded.
O'Neill is still on the hunt for his ideal lineup, and the trio that shone against Hearts may just be the answer.
