Could Johnston be the key to Rodgers bringing Idah onboard permanently?
A LOT of pressure was placed on Adam Idah’s young shoulders just a few months ago.
Indeed, the Republic of Ireland striker made the bold move from Championship to Premiership when he penned a six- month loan to Celtic back in January from his parent club Norwich City. A move that raised eyebrows both north and south of the border, the forward knew that he had to make an instant impact in order to make a name for himself in Scotland, as his career had stalled at the Canaries under David Wagner.
Just 17 goals in 115 appearances led many to believe that this was an uninspiring move for Brendan Rodgers in his second transfer window since returning to the Celtic hot seat. His first foray into the striker’s market since the arrival of Vakoun Bayo who plays in the Championship with Watford – back in 2019 before his departure to Leicester City yet another link to England’s second division. A stalwart for his country, Idah had the experience for the move to Celtic, but perhaps not the goal tally to match the side’s lofty expectations.
Just under three months on, however, and those doubts have evaporated, as the striker has a legitimate claim to be the club’s most effective signing this season. The proof is in the pudding or data as Idah has scored seven goals in just 12 appearances for his temporary employers since he arrived in Glasgow. A great return, especially when you take into account the competition he faces in the shape of Kyogo Furuhashi.
His shining moment thus far in a Celtic jersey was arguably that quick- fire goal against Rangers in the latest iteration of the Glasgow Derby, in which he slotted away a low strike that caught Jack Butland by surprise. In truth, however, the Irishman has been involved in so many big moments already since his last- minute move to the club. Assisting fellow January arrival Nicolas Kuhn on his debut, his two penalties against Hibernian at Easter Road and his double versus Motherwell at Fir Park, Idah has shown that he can be a man and player for the big occasion when called upon, especially late on in games.
With no option to buy inserted into his deal with Celtic, the club is at the mercy of Idah’s parent club when it comes to hashing out a deal for the talented 23- year- old. With
many fees of varying figures circulating over the past few weeks, it seems as if Norwich will want a pretty penny for their rough diamond, which has shone away from Carrow Road. At present, it does not look likely that Sydney van Hooijdonk son of Pierre will be extending his stay at Wagner’s side beyond the summer, having only contributed a single assist and no goals in eight appearances. Reportedly a target for Celtic, the club may have made a good move by bringing in Idah instead of the Dutchman.
Speaking of deals, there may be one in particular that could realistically be made, especially if both parties continue to perform. No two ways about it, Celtic’s Mikey Johnston has been a revelation since joining the Championship at Carlos Corberan’s West Bromwich Albion. Seven goals and an assist in 15 appearances for the play- off contenders since his winter arrival has been a godsend for the winger.
A player who seems to play his best football away from Celtic Park the opposite of his countryman Idah a permanent move away from his boyhood club may be the best move for the wide man going forward, especially when he is in such high demand at present. Maybe he sees his big break occurring this summer following his Hawthorns breakout spell, though now may be the time to cash in with just a year left on his current Celtic deal. Winning March’s Championship Player of the Month award and scoring against teams in and around Norwich’s wich’s position in the league, gue, the Canaries will know wall all about the rejuvenated forward. rd.
Perhaps this is an n audition period for r Johnston to seal his s move away from Celtic eltic Park, which could be advantageous to his club’s pursuit of Idah. Indeed, there may be a deal to be made between the two sides, des, especially if the respective spective form of both players rs continues to be positive sitive from now until the end of the season. Either way, both players seem to be flourishing away from the home comforts of their parent clubs, and both of their temporary employers are feeling the benefits. efits.
Of course, West Brom’s play- off situation will surely play a big factor in the future of Johnston down south. As things stand there is only one point between the Baggies and Norwich in fifth and sixth place respectively, followed by a six- point gap between the latter and Hull City, who sit just outside of the play- off spots. This could prove key, as both could meet each other at Wemb Wembley Stadium if they maintain th their positions and beat their semi semi- final opponents who as of right now will be Southa Southampton and Leeds. Plenty of moving pieces, yes, but b West Brom’s suc success could lead to Johnston’s Joh valuation increasing. i Either w way, the permanent signing sig of Idah is becoming more mor and more appetising by th the game, as the powerful str striker has taken to Scottish football like a duck to water. The same can be said for Johnston’s fortunes fortun south of the border, with th the 24- year- old looking like a superstar super in England’s second di division. He will have plenty of su suitors, so why not potentially include includ him in the deal to sign Idah for Celtic? Ce That way, he can restart his c career either in the Premier League or Championship.