WILFRED NANCY DROPS CELTIC STAR AHEAD OF ST MIRREN CLASH AFTER INCIDENT AGAINST ROMA

Celtic head coach Wilfried Nancy has made another bold decision early in his tenure, leaving a key Celtic figure out of his matchday plans ahead of the League Cup final against St Mirren, while also delivering a clear message about expectations, freedom and responsibility within his evolving system.

Nancy, who is still in the early stages of shaping his Celtic side, has placed strong emphasis on mentality and tactical discipline since taking charge. That approach came sharply into focus following the recent European outing against Roma, where one senior player’s performance and decision making prompted internal discussions within the coaching staff. While Nancy has avoided singling out individuals publicly, sources close to the club suggest the omission is intended as a reset rather than a punishment.

Despite the headline decision, the Celtic manager has been keen to strike a positive and developmental tone, particularly when discussing Kieran Tierney, who has emerged as a central figure in Nancy’s early plans. The Scotland international has impressed in the opening matches under the new coach, operating as the left sided centre back in a back three, a role that allows him to combine defensive responsibility with his natural ability to step forward and influence play.

Tierney’s return to Celtic during the summer was met with widespread enthusiasm, but the 27 year old needed time to regain full sharpness after his move back to Glasgow. In recent weeks, however, he has begun to show signs of the form that once made him one of the club’s most reliable performers, offering composure, leadership and balance on the left side of defence.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s League Cup final at Hampden Park, Nancy explained that his work with Tierney has gone beyond tactics, focusing instead on confidence and self belief. The Celtic boss believes the defender still has untapped potential that can be unlocked with a more liberated approach.

“He has really, really good qualities, and I challenge him to play with more freedom,” Nancy told RecordSport. “He has a really, really good level. But sometimes he puts a bit of limitation on himself, and this is something we have been talking about. The idea is for him to feel relief in his game and to trust what he can do.”

Nancy stressed that Tierney’s influence extends well beyond his on pitch actions, highlighting his importance as a leader in a squad that is adapting to new demands. The manager added that providing players with clarity and confidence is essential if Celtic are to maintain consistency across domestic and European competitions.

“It is really important for us, the way he plays and his leadership,” Nancy said. “So the idea is to give him all the tools to be good. When players feel supported, they can express themselves properly.”

Tierney is expected to start once again at Hampden as Celtic attempt to secure their first piece of silverware of the season. His presence in the back three has brought stability, while also allowing the team to build attacks more fluidly from deep areas. With the pressure of a cup final, Nancy will be hoping that Tierney can set the tone both in performance and mentality.

Selection issues elsewhere in the squad mean Nancy may need to make further adjustments. Tounekti is unavailable due to international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations, reducing options on the left flank. Iheanacho has returned to full fitness, while Daizen Maeda is also being considered for a more advanced role, depending on how Nancy chooses to balance defensive security with attacking intent.

The decision to leave out a prominent figure after the Roma match underlines Nancy’s willingness to make tough calls, even at an early stage of his reign. It also sends a message that reputation alone will not guarantee selection, as the Celtic boss looks to build a squad aligned with his principles.

For Celtic supporters, Sunday’s final represents an opportunity to see the early fruits of a new era. While fans were left surprised by the latest selection call, there is growing belief that Nancy’s approach is rooted in long term success rather than short term comfort.

As Celtic prepare to face St Mirren under the lights at Hampden, the focus will be on performance, discipline and leadership. With Tierney expected to marshal the defence and lead by example, Nancy will be hoping his message of freedom and responsibility translates into silverware and sets the standard for the season ahead.