RONNY Deila has urged Celtic fans to give James Forrest encouragement rather than jeers. The Celtic manager said: “James hasn’t pulled a muscle now in five months and that’s a big step forward for him.
‘He has been unlucky and needs time to get back to his highest level.
‘I have a long-term plan with James because his history is not good. In fact, it’s very bad injury-wise. But he’s in a better place now. I’m thinking, next season he’ll be on top again.
‘However, James can still make an impact in this campaign as well. I can understand the fans’ frustration with him. On that pitch you have to perform, that’s the demands of Celtic.
‘But we have to look longer term and see what’s happening in the background. We know there is special potential there. That’s why we’ve been working differently in his training and treatment.
‘It’s also a mental thing where sometimes you’re afraid to get hurt. James needs training and more matches to get back to his best form.’
If Forrest is getting made ready for next season you have to question the wisdom in bringing him on to lead the line in the San Siro where he appeared to jog around after the Inter Milan players.
