When Adam Idah’s loan move from Norwich City to Celtic was announced during the winter transfer window, he wasn’t exactly a hit.
Expecting a more aggressive recruitment campaign, some Celtic supporters believed that Idah’s arrival was just another indication of transfer issues that the team was having behind closed doors.
But Brendan Rodgers has always stated that he thought highly of the player, and it’s safe to assume that the striker’s influence has changed people’s perceptions.
In his little time here, he has already scored six goals, including a vital late goal against Rangers last week that resulted in a 3-3 tie. His value as a substitute for Kyogo Furuhashi has been demonstrated.
Rather than feeling insecure at Norwich, Idah attributes his current level of play to the confidence he gets while donning a Celtic shirt. He believes he is playing the finest football of his career.
On his Celtic form, Adam Idah
This past weekend, the Republic of Ireland international stated [in print, Daily Record, 13/04]: “I’m really enjoying playing up here.” I think I’m more confident than I’ve ever been. By looking at the goals, you can probably tell that when I’m on the pitch and in general, it’s probably the best I’ve played.
You can tell that I’ve improved my game by a lot of the things that he [Rodgers] does in training with me and the other offensive players. He has been a huge assistance.
“He thought he might help me improve on some of the things we discussed when I initially came in. I’m trying to accomplish that week by week and will do my best to return the favour for the faith he has placed in me.
It’s important to be that self-assured player. I didn’t feel secure and I didn’t receive minutes at Norwich. Being in this situation when you’re not performing well is challenging. It has therefore been wonderful for me to come here and have the staff and fans support me. I adore it.
Idah’s Celtic future
There’s no reason Celtic shouldn’t make a serious effort to recruit Idah this summer if the price is right. There have been rumours that he may go for as little as £3 million, which is not bad for a striker.
With Rodgers’ support, he can continue to be a valuable member of the Bhoys’ squad and carry over his confidence into the upcoming campaign. He has demonstrated that he is capable of punishing Scottish Premiership sides.
It remains to be seen if everything will go as smoothly as picking him up in a great deal. Now that he’s raised his profile, Norwich might have other ideas for him.
