Opinion: 19-year-old can add new dimension to Celtic in title run-in

It was intriguing to see Karamoko Dembele make his first Celtic appearance of the season towards the end of the midweek win over St Mirren.

The 19-year-old winger came on in the 86th minute, as the Hoops eased their way to a win which keeps the side clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

It is interesting to note that during a close title race, Hoops boss Ange Postecoglou had no qualms about playing the Celtic starlet. Of course, it was made easier by the fact that the Bhoys had the game won, but it would not be a surprise to see Celtic turn towards Dembele if the Hoops are looking to win a game.

That could be the case in this weekend’s game against Livingston, when the Hoops will be looking to overcome a poor record against the Premiership club to pick up a much-needed three points.

It would not be a shock if the Bhoys were looking for a goal to win the game in the closing stages, that Postecoglou turns to Dembele to try and help the Hoops win the game.

That would be putting a lot onto a young player who has been out injured for the majority of the season, but if Dembele is as good a player that many hope he is, then he could have an impact for the Hoops not only in the next league game but for the rest of the season.

The winger’s attacking threat could add an extra dimension to a Celtic side which has looked jaded in recent weeks. Dembele should be fresh after being out injured for so long, and that could be used to Celtic’s advantage over the next few months.

The return of injured players could have a big impact on Celtic’s chances of winning the title. Dembele has now returned, and hopefully David Turnbull and Kyogo aren’t far away from returning to the Hoops first-team squad.

Those two players would make a