Celtic's search for a consistent, reliable number nine has been a recurring theme this season, with three different managers cycling through a carousel of attacking options. From Adam Idah and Daizen Maeda to Johnny Kenny and Kelechi Iheanacho, the central striking role has seen little stability, leading to a noticeable lack of cutting edge in the final third.

According to former Celtic forward Tony Watt, now at Partick Thistle, the solution is clear when fitness permits. Speaking on Clyde Superscoreboard, Watt singled out Kelechi Iheanacho as the standout candidate. "I think Iheanacho is the best striker, in terms of an out-and-out number nine," Watt stated. "In front of the goal, his hold-up play is strong. If you can hold the ball up and score goals, you have a chance at Celtic."

Watt acknowledged that Iheanacho's season has been hampered by availability issues, forcing the club to look elsewhere. However, he was critical of other options tried in the role. He expressed a clear preference for seeing Daizen Maeda utilized on the left wing, leveraging his explosive pace and energy to deliver crosses, rather than as a central striker where his hold-up play is lacking.

The debate over who leads the line is crucial for a club of Celtic's ambitions, where a prolific, physical presence up front can be the difference in tight domestic clashes and European nights. As the season progresses, finding the right fit for the iconic number nine jersey remains a pivotal piece of the puzzle for the Hoops.