NEIL LENNON has lauded the qualities of Odsonne Edouard – and told the Celtic fans to enjoy him while they can.
The French striker became the club’s most expensive buy when he arrived in a £9million switch from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2018 following an initial impressive season-long loan.
Edouard was mothballed by the Hoops boss as the turn of the year approached as he carried an injury, but his explosive introduction on the hour mark swung the Betfred League Cup Final in the holders’ favour.
His mere presence shook up Steven Gerrard’s side who had looked comfortable in dealing with the threat of Lewis Morgan who made way for the talisman. Within moments of coming on the field, the attacker was clattered from behind by Connor Goldson in a crude welcome to the action which immediately resulted in a crucial free-kick wide on the left wing.
Ryan Christie swept in the award, Christopher Jullien arrived on time to plant the ball behind Allan McGregor – and the rest is history.
Edouard has hit the ground running since the return to action following the mid-winter break and the training camp in Dubai.
FREE AND EASY…Odsonne Edouard whips in the deadball equaliser against Hamilton Accies.
Lennon is delighted and, speaking to the Daily Record, said: “Odsonne’s been playing brilliantly – his free-kick at Hamilton was special and his second goal was very well-worked and beautifully crafted and he’s in great form, with 22 for the season now.
“That’s only one short of his best total from last year and he has plenty of games left in which to add to that tally. He’s also unselfish and steps up with assists.
“Odsonne’s so deceptive – he’s lithe and stronger than he looks, he’s very intelligent and has lovely feet. He’s in a good place and we seem to be talking about him all the time, but that’s down to his level of performance.
“We want to keep him for as long as we can, but sometimes business dictates otherwise.
“However, he’s enjoying his football and seems happy here.
“He’s a very quiet kid off the field, laid back and easy going.
“You don’t get too many foreign players nowadays doing what Henrik did and staying here for seven years.”
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