Duran and Osmand give Celtic a new edge as Hogh faces awkward wait

Celtic's attacking picture appears far clearer now than it did only a short while ago. Martin O'Neill had previously admitted he was still searching for his strongest line-up, but recent evidence points firmly in one direction: Camilo Duran has emerged as the side's most convincing option as the central striker.

The forward line has looked sharper with Duran leading it, and the influence of Osmand has added another layer of purpose around him. Together, they have provided the kind of urgency and movement that can transform a team from functional to threatening. For a manager trying to settle on his best attacking blend, that matters.

Duran staking a serious claim

Duran's case is not simply about goals or moments of quality in isolation. It is about the shape he gives the attack. A natural focal point can lift the players around him, offering clearer passing angles, better occupation of defenders and a more reliable presence in dangerous areas. Celtic look more coherent when he is the reference point.

That does not automatically end debate over selection, but it does change its tone. O'Neill may once have been weighing up several roughly equal options. Now, it feels more like the shirt is Duran's to lose. In a side looking for rhythm and continuity, that is an important development.

Osmand's impact changes the conversation

Osmand's contribution should not be overlooked. When a striker starts to thrive, the supporting cast usually deserves a share of the credit, and Celtic have looked more alive with Osmand helping to spark transitions and keep attacks moving. The combination has injected life into a unit that needed fresh momentum.

That chemistry could prove just as important as any individual display. Managers often talk about balance, and Celtic seem to have stumbled upon a partnership that gives them more of it. There is greater fluency to their attacking play, and with that comes a stronger platform for the rest of the side.

Where does that leave Hogh?

The obvious consequence is that Hogh's place comes under renewed scrutiny. Squad depth is valuable, particularly across a demanding campaign, but players are ultimately judged on whether they improve the first-choice XI. Right now, the evidence suggests Duran is ahead in the race to lead the line.

That does not mean Hogh has no role. Form can shift quickly, injuries happen, and tactical plans vary from match to match. But if Celtic are selecting purely on current impact, Hogh may have to be patient. His challenge now is to respond in training and take any next opportunity when it arrives.

A clearer Celtic attack at the right time

For O'Neill, the encouraging part is not just that individuals have impressed, but that a previously uncertain issue now looks closer to resolution. Managers spend huge chunks of a season trying to identify their most effective attacking structure. Celtic may not have every answer yet, but they appear to have found one of the biggest.

If Duran continues to offer the same authority through the middle and Osmand maintains his supporting influence, Celtic's attack should carry more threat in the weeks ahead. The immediate takeaway is simple: the team look more dangerous, the hierarchy up front is becoming clearer, and Hogh is the player left with the hardest questions to answer.