Coffey edging closer to Celtic bow

The Covid-19 pandemic can work to the advantage of some and it could be the case for Barry Coffey who is edging closer to his first team debut for Glasgow Celtic.

The 19-year-old Nenagh man was named on the subs bench for the first time for the Scottish Premiership game against Hibernian on Monday night last at Celtic Park, which finished 1-1.

Coffey was elevated to the bench after thirteen players and staff, including manager Neil Lennon, were ruled out due to Covid-19 protocols after player Christopher Jullien tested positive following their return from a training camp in Dubai.

Barry Coffey was an unused sub against Hibs who scored an injury time equaliser to deny Celtic a much-needed win as they trail great rivals Rangers by 21 points, with three games in hand.

Depending on the length of restrictions of the impacted players, Barry Coffey could again in the match-day squad when they host Livingston in the league at Celtic Park next Saturday afternoon.