Celtic have Adam Idah to thank for several catalysing moments in the season as they brought a domestic double back to Parkhead.
The Republic of Ireland international registered nine goals and two assists in 19 appearances under Brendan Rodgers [Transfermarkt].
This included pivotal doubles against Hibernian, Motherwell and a critical strike to earn a point at Ibrox in early April.
Last weekend, his anticipation was rewarded against Rangers at Hampden as he capitalised on Jack Butland’s sloppy fumble to power home from close range, scoring the winning goal in the Scottish Cup final.
Given that Idah arrived on loan from Norwich City to little hype, not even the most optimistic Celtic fan could’ve predicted his impact in Glasgow.
Rodgers has now made it clear that he intends to try and secure the Cork-born frontman permanently, and the club hierarchy is reportedly willing to support the Irishman in his attempts to acquire his compatriot.
James Forrest on why he knew Adam Idah would succeed at Celtic
James Forrest is now one of the senior members of the Celtic dressing room and will have a good idea of who is built for the challenges life at Parkhead can throw at new arrivals.
Nevertheless, the Scotland international has admitted Idah always ‘had what it takes’ to pull on the famous green and white, citing his ability to offer something different to Kyogo Furuhashi as a major positive.
He stated [The Celtic Way]: “I think as soon as he came, he fitted in really well. He knew Liam Scales and Mikey Johnston at the time. After his first game, you could see that he had what it takes to play for Celtic.
“I think he’s been a great addition because he’s different to the way that Kyogo plays. He’s fitted in really well in the changing room and on the park as well. I think everyone would be delighted if he stayed.
Celtic are right to push the button on Adam Idah swoop
Celtic may have stumbled upon Idah this campaign; however, Rodgers had a pre-existing knowledge of the Irishman and he is right to try and bring him in permanently.
Confidence can work wonders for a striker such as Idah, who clearly needed a new challenge after several years of trying to nail down a starting slot at Norwich City.
Whether the Canaries are open to a permanent deal remains to be seen, with reports claiming they could ask for a fee in the region of £5 million. They are currently managerless, and it remains to be seen whether that could influence negotiations.