Celtic forward Johnny Kenny has been catching the eye in training, but the remarkable form of Daizen Maeda continues to keep him and Adam Idah waiting for their chances in Brendan Rodgers' side.
Maeda has now netted 30 goals for the Hoops this season, often stepping up as the central striker rather than occupying the left-wing position where fans have grown accustomed to seeing him since his arrival from Yokohama F. Marinos in January 2022.
His ability to fill the void left by Kyogo Furuhashi, who departed for Rennes in the recent winter window, has given Rodgers' team a crucial attacking edge.
Celtic spent significantly last summer to land Idah permanently from Norwich City, with expectations that he would serve as a ready-made replacement for Kyogo.
Meanwhile, Kenny returned from a highly productive loan spell at Shamrock Rovers at the start of 2025, where he bagged 20 goals in 39 appearances, including standout performances in the UEFA Conference League.
Despite their credentials, both have had to bide their time in the pecking order.
When asked if he has had to manage Idah's expectations given Kyogo's departure and Maeda's recent role change, Rodgers acknowledged the challenge but emphasised the team-oriented approach at Celtic Park.
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"I think it's all the players. It's recognising and acknowledging that here there are a lot of games to play," Rodgers said.
"Adam trains really well. He's very focused. He's had some really, really big moments for this club. I'm really happy he's here to be one of a number of strikers because it gives us something different. He's always looking to improve his game, and his finishing is really, really good.
"But of course, Daizen going into the middle has meant that he's played a similar role to what he did with Kyogo. But it can also be the type of game that we need. Adam is hungry to always show what he can do, as is Daizen and the other players."
"I look at young Johnny Kenny. I see him every day. I look at the work he puts in. Whether he's off the side, whether he's through the middle, his movement is great. He's a fantastic finisher, 25 yards in. He's really, really good and he's hardly had any game time," he noted.
"I recognise with all the players, if you're not playing, especially at this time of the season when it's one game a week, it can be a challenge. But their attitudes have been first class. They're all supportive of each other and the spirit is very strong."
Celtic's demanding schedule may have eased since the March international break, but with another Scottish Premiership title and Scottish Cup silverware still firmly in reach, contributions from the entire squad will be required.
