Celtic fans have their eyes firmly fixed on summer transfer activity following a climactic double-winning campaign at Parkhead.
Nevertheless, the off-season also offers an opportunity to look back on the brilliant moments across the year gone by that secured Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup glory.
Brendan Rodgers and his players had to show collective strength during 2023/24 in the face of the usual noise from across the city and narratives being pedalled elsewhere that a crisis was unfolding at Parkhead following a few unsatisfactory performances.
As true winners do, Celtic prevailed, letting their supporters enjoy a summer of bragging rights before the pre-season begins in a few weeks.
There were many reasons why the Bhoys eventually claimed two pieces of silverware; regardless, 67 Hail Hail hones in on one that may have gone under the radar in the midst of the celebrations.
Celtic’s goal contributions spread in double-winning campaign
Teamwork makes the dream work, as they say, but aside from the cringe cliches to describe my point, Celtic’s goal contributions were widespread among the team in 2023/24. Several players chipping in with important strikes or assists that helped force the double over the line.
It would be easier to cite the usual suspects, such as Kyogo Furuhashi and Matt O’Riley, to showcase the basis of this article; however, the numbers produced by fringe players and in deeper roles make for impressive reading, so it is time to shine a light on their exploits.
Citing Transfermarkt, James Forrest’s late renaissance added to his overall tally of seven goals and two assists this term, which is commendable considering he only made eight starts all campaign.
Despite a lack of regular involvement during the run-in, Luis Palma’s debut 12 months at the club yielded ten strikes and ten assists; meanwhile, Alistair Johnston put up a solitary goal and seven assists, equalling his career-best (4G/4A in 2021/22 at CF Montreal).
Paulo Bernardo racked up seven goal contributions: four strikes and three passes directly leading to a goal, including a stunning volley to open the scoring against Rangers at the tail end of 2023.
From left-back, Greg Taylor netted three times and laid five on a plate for his teammates, while Callum McGregor notched two efforts and six assists.
Undoubtedly, there are more players I could exemplify to demonstrate this trend, but the main point is, Celtic didn’t just need to rely on their front players this campaign, even when times became a little testing.
Successful sides always find a way to claim results, and Rodgers’ men all stood up and were counted, blending hard work with decisive actions when it mattered.
Heading into next season, hopefully, this is a phenomenon that can continue as the Bhoys look to build on winning the double.