Nir Bitton needs to focus on getting back to level he was at

To be honest, I think it has probably been a reaction borne out of frustration, not just at the news he apparently received about not starting for his country this weekend but also because it just hasn’t been going for him at Celtic either.

It was not so long ago that Bitton was being talked about as the next player that would doubtless be Premiership bound from Celtic but since the turn of the year his performances have dried up.

Now, Stuart Armstrong is challenging him for that position – and I thought that he was outstanding in the weekend win over Inverness.

Bitton cannot afford to be as petulant as he has reportedly been with his national side. It is fair enough to challenge a decision and to ask for an explanation but ultimately the final shout has to rest with the manager.

Certainly, he has not been at the races with Celtic this season and I think the way that Armstrong is playing, he could finds himself under pressure to stay in the team.

Armstrong brings an energy to Celtic and although he lost the ball a lot when they were over in Germany against Borussia Monchengladbach his work ethic is good and he is always ready and prepared to get back.

He was the best man on the park against Inverness, although he should have scored with that header. Someone has to tell him to twist his neck a little more – and that there is shampoo available in the shower afterwards so he doesn’t need to worry too much about muddying his blonde locks!

Also, I have been critical of the Green Brigade in the past in this column. I felt their behaviour at the 5-1 game over Rangers was off with a needlessly offensive banner but last Saturday I felt they did what they should be doing.

They lifted the stadium at times when there was a lull and they created an atmosphere of trying to get the supporters going. I have been among their critics but if they can concentrate on creating a good atmosphere and getting behind the players then it can serve the club well.