Frank McAvennie Says James Forrest Is Celtic’s Best Winger – O’Neill Must Decide Before Benfica

James Forrest watched Celtic’s win over Motherwell from the bench. Now Frank McAvennie has put a direct question to Martin O’Neill: is Celtic’s most experienced winger still one of the best options at the club?

McAvennie says yes. Speaking on his podcast, he called Forrest Celtic’s best winger, even joking about the player’s age. Scott Brown made a similar claim last month, saying Forrest was “by far” the club’s best winger.

Those are strong opinions. But they matter more now because Celtic face Benfica on Thursday, and Forrest is available for selection.

Forrest was left out despite five changes

At Motherwell, Forrest stayed on the bench as O’Neill used all five substitutes. Sebastian Tounekti started on the wing and Jota came on for him, making his first Celtic appearance in 533 days.

Jota cannot play against Benfica. He is not registered in Celtic’s Europa League squad. Forrest is included, which puts the decision back in O’Neill’s hands: does he trust the 35-year-old to make an impact in Lisbon?

That does not mean Forrest must start. Tounekti had a better afternoon against Motherwell, while the returning Jota showed why supporters have waited so long to see him back. Celtic have younger wide players, and O’Neill has to weigh current form, fitness and the demands of a difficult European away match.

But leaving Forrest unused after making five changes does invite the question. If two former Celtic players believe he remains the best winger at the club, should he be getting more opportunities?

Benfica gives O’Neill a decision to make

Forrest brings experience and a long record of delivering for Celtic. He has played in big European matches before. At the same time, reputation alone cannot guarantee him a place in the team.

That is why Thursday matters. With Jota unavailable and Forrest eligible, O’Neill has a clear choice to make. He can stick with the younger options, or give a senior player another chance to show he still has something to offer at this level.

McAvennie’s view will divide supporters. Some will see Forrest’s experience as exactly what Celtic need; others will argue that the younger wingers deserve the minutes. Either way, the manager’s selection will tell us more than another debate about age.

Forrest is available. The question now is whether O’Neill believes he can help Celtic in Lisbon.