Celtic news: Alan Hutton delivers verdict on right back competition

Alan Hutton has been left greatly encouraged by the options Celtic have at right back after Hatem Abd Elhamed’s display against KR Reykjavik.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge, the former Rangers man delivered his verdict after Elhamed was involved in two of the goals in the Bhoys’ 6-0 victory.

Neil Lennon told Celtic TV after the game: “He’s (Elhamed) been knocking on the door and obviously with him and Jeremie (Frimpong) we’ve got a really good two to pick from.”

The 29-year-old joined Celtic from Israeli side Hapoel Be’er Sheva last summer but has only played 17 times for the Scottish champions.

Asked by Football Insider whether Lennon will be relishing a selection headache, Hutton said: “It’s a great one. This is what managers want, they want headaches of that type.

“Players pushing each other the whole way to be in the starting team. It’s only healthy for the team in general.

“They’re going for 10 in a row, they need to have competition all across the pitch.

“If they don’t have that people just think ‘I’ll play the next game, I’ll be in there no problem’. They get complacent so to have somebody pushing you the whole way is only good for them and the team.

“With Frimpong, I really like what he’s come in and done. He’s plays like a boy playing on the street with his pals. He’s got great energy, has got no shackles on him and he just wants to go and play football.

“He’s got great competition there so it’s one we’re going to have to keep an eye on throughout the season.”

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