Why Celtic must replace Stuart Armstrong with Josh Onomah
This summer, Stuart Armstrong took the well-trodden route by switching Scottish Champions Celtic for south coast side Southampton. The Glasgow club are yet to find a replacement for the Scotland international. To that end, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Josh Onomah could be an ideal replacement for Armstrong. The versatile 21-year-old can play numerous roles across the midfield but he thrives as an attacking midfielder.
The fleet-footed Onomah spent last season on loan at Aston Villa as the club narrowly missed out on promotion after losing in the playoffs at Wembley Stadium. He made 33 Championship appearances for Steve Bruce’s side, scoring four times and providing three assists.
To play regularly this season, the youngster must be sent out on loan before the transfer window closes at the end of the month. A move away is necessary to ensure Onomah’s progress and playing regularly would increase his experience.
Now, the Hoops could use a supply line for record-signing, striker Odsonne Edouard. Celtic, who were knocked out in the UEFA Champions League qualifications rounds by a determined AEK Athens, could truly benefit from a player of Onomah’s calibre.
Celtic saw a bid rejected for Onomah last summer, following which he joined Aston Villa on loan. Fast forward a year later and he is still the player Brendan Rodgers’ side desperately needs. Armstrong’s exit has left a gap in the midfield and the Scottish giants have failed to fill the void.
Onomah’s energy and tenacity could offer them just the lift they need after a stuttering beginning to the 2018/19 season.
The tough-tackling youngster puts in strong defensive contributions and is great with the ball at his feet. Onomah is also a good dribbler and can take a long shot with relative ease. Furthermore, he is adept at supplying key pass into the final third, and that is something Odsonne direly needs. Hence, Onomah is a great option to replace Armstrong and Celtic must revisit their interest by signing him on loan for the rest of the season.
