Last weekend he was a world-beater, tonight just another scapegoat. Such is the life of a winger at Celtic.
Against Livingston Moi Elyounoussi looked untouchable, scoring two excellent yet contrasting goals. One from distance, the other showing a deft touch.
If there was someone that you’d want a near open goal falling to at Ibrox it would have been the on-loan Southampton winger. Ahead of the match John Kennedy had discussed the merits of striking a deal to make his move permanent.
Just before the hour mark he was set up perfectly to bring Celtic back into the tie at Ibrox by Odsonne Edouard. One sure touch and it was game on, half an hour for Celtic to undo the shambolic defending of the first half.
For reasons only he can explain Elyounoussi decided on a touch, a heavy touch and his shot was smothered, just like Celtic’s chances.
The 26-year-old is in his second season on loan at Celtic, he has scored more goals and made more appearances for the hoops than at his parent club.
Elyounoussi still has two years of a lucrative deal to run at Southampton. After paying Basel £16.2m as a transfer fee they backed up their investment, pre-Lockdown, with a five year contract. Where he stands in the pecking order at St Mary’s in pre-season is anyone’s guess, just as his resale value is up for debate.
He certainly has something in his game, he has scored against some impressive opponents this season at Celtic but more than ability is needed to cut the mustard in a must-win environment.
On Twitter tonight Celtic fans seem split on his appeal but it’ll be a new manager that makes any decision- assuming that the Norwegian fancies a third stint of life in the SPFL.
Should Celtic sign Elyounoussi if he is available for £5m?
Yes, he has it, just needs the right coach
No, he is hot and cold, we need better
Rumoured £5m transfer fee and God knows what wages.
Still think he’s worth buying ? pic.twitter.com/KB4v3bkPNc— Highland__Paddy (@Highland__paddy) April 18, 2021
Listened to Kennedy’s interview post match. Talked about players lacking belief / confidence.
What I don’t get, is that only 7 days ago Moi rapped his foot round the ball, from 20 yards, and 1st time, buried his finish.
Today, 8 yards out, takes a heavy touch.
It’s inexplicable— It dusnae Vata (@gazzarinho1) April 18, 2021
I’d keep him and send Ajeti back to Southampton in his place
— Gerry Kelly ??????????? (@gerrybhoy7) April 18, 2021
Based on what?
— JohnnyL57 (@JohnnyL57) April 18, 2021
No, far to inconsistent, better wingers out there at cheaper price
— Jamsiebhoy (@JamesLawrie16) April 18, 2021
Not worth half that.
— Nikki (@NikkiGeorge1) April 18, 2021
Moi has scored against:
Rangers
Milan
Cluj
Lille (2)
But he doesn’t score in big games?— Martin ??????????? (@mrtn67_) April 18, 2021
Don’t think u can judge him on his performance today he played out of position, he’s been clinical recently on the left as seen last weekend
— Liam Campbell (@campbell_liam_) April 18, 2021