Celtic Handed Unexpected Motherwell Boost

Celtic have been handed an unexpected boost ahead of their Premiership return against Motherwell, with Sebastian Tounekti heading back to Glasgow earlier than originally planned.

The winger had been away representing Tunisia during the international break and was expected to remain with his country for their friendly against Mali.

That match, however, has now been cancelled.

The Tunisian Football Federation confirmed the decision after discussions with the coaching staff and the Malian federation, meaning Tounekti has been released from international duty earlier than Celtic would have anticipated.

For Martin O’Neill, the timing could prove useful.

Extra time at Lennoxtown

Celtic travel to Fir Park to face Motherwell on October 11, and Tounekti should now have additional time back at Lennoxtown before domestic football resumes.

That matters.

While several Celtic players remain scattered around the world on international duty, O’Neill now gets one of his attacking options back ahead of schedule.

And Tounekti could certainly benefit from some uninterrupted time on the training pitch.

The winger has endured a difficult spell and hasn’t consistently produced the attacking impact Celtic supporters hoped to see.

But there is clearly ability there.

With Jota finally making his return to action in Friday’s behind-closed-doors game against Falkirk, competition in Celtic’s wide areas is suddenly beginning to look considerably healthier.

A dramatic international break

Tounekti’s time with Tunisia certainly wasn’t quiet.

He featured in their 2-2 draw against Botswana and found himself involved in a remarkable late touchline confrontation.

With Tunisia desperately chasing a winner, Botswana interim manager Thaloba Nthaga delayed returning the ball for a throw-in.

Tounekti confronted him and a brief pushing incident followed before players, coaches and officials intervened.

Now, though, his international break is finished.

Tunisia’s scheduled friendly against Mali has been cancelled amid concerns over injuries within their squad following a disappointing start to their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

An opportunity Tounekti must take

For Celtic, there is a potential positive hidden inside all of this.

Tounekti gets back early.

O’Neill gets extra time with him.

And Celtic have an important Premiership match approaching.

With Jota working his way back towards full fitness and Celtic’s attacking options beginning to increase, Tounekti also knows competition for places isn’t going to become any easier.

The unexpected early return therefore gives him something valuable.

Time.

Now he has to make the most of it.