Celtic defender Greg Taylor was excellent in the derby against Rangers last weekend, and it was symptomatic of a recent improvement in the defender’s performances.
The 24-year-old has been the club’s first-choice left-back when fit under manager Ange Postecoglou but he has always been a rather divisive figure among fans.
Some supporters on Twitter feel Taylor’s display on Sunday should have won over any doubters but there are still a sizeable number who feel that he isn’t good enough to be a regular starter:
We still need an upgrade, there’s a place for him in the squad but we can get more from the position
— Scott Munro (@Monty_Bhoy) April 4, 2022
He’s class he’s been class since after the Bodo game he loves Celtic that’s why when angee offered him a new contract he never thought about it twice signed it straight away👏🍀🍀
— Courtney (@ItzCeltic1888) April 4, 2022
He’s tried his hardest and done well but we need to strengthen. We always think we’ve done enough and relax but it should be never stop on recruitment for next year and the cl. Let’s learn from nearly a decade of little success in cl
— paul (@gloriouspatrick) April 4, 2022
His game has improved massively under Ange, a coach who believes in him. The lad clearly has more confidence and it's showing on the pitch. Keep going Greg, ☘️☘️
— Paul (@PaulMacca63) April 4, 2022
Solid game on Sunday but he’s not a Celtic starting 11 player. The limit of his game is looking for a pass, he can’t beat a man, he doesn’t assist, he doesn’t score and he can’t play out in tight areas. Happily have him as back up but we can’t go into the UCL with Taylor
— RYAN HASSAN (@ryanhassan) April 5, 2022
If Ange picks him that’s good enough for me, he works with him every day.
— FD (@F_Dev1888) April 4, 2022
I don’t doubt his effort, Sunday was also the best I think I’ve ever seen him play. I don’t think he’s the level of player we need him to be. If we hold on for the title I’ll be very curious to see what Ange does with that position
— CoreyCaustic | Twitch Affiliate (@CoreyCaustic) April 4, 2022
He has improved massively. He fits in this team because he has pace and energy which to be fair were always there. But his reading of the game and passing are on a higher level.
— Auchinstarry (@Auchinstarry) April 4, 2022
Lately he has been brilliant but I reckon his is the position that needs the most attention this summer. He is a more than capable deputy but I reckon to kick on, his is the position to improve
— Brendan Quinn (@quinzo82) April 4, 2022
As some have mentioned, consistency is the key for Taylor. He has been playing well over the last couple of months but he has thrown in a stinker here and there; especially in Europe.
If Taylor can cut out those sort of matches then the debate over whether he merits a place in the first team will probably quieten down. Whether that will happen, though, it remains to be seen.