Tony Watt’s career has been fruitful so far to say the least. Still just 25, and following his rejection to sign on again at St Johnstone, he’s now playing for the eleventh club of his career.
CSKA Sofia have secured the services of the former Celtic man on a three year deal. Runners-up in the Bulgarian top tier last season, what are the Europa League-destined side in for?
‘That’ goal
Watt is in grave danger of being remembered as the guy who scored the winner against Barcelona but not really kicking on. That is, if goals are all you’re interested in.
Tony Watt evaded Javier Mascherano to put Celtic two to the good against Barcelona in 2012 before Lionel Messi pulled one back for the visitors. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
There’s a definite player in there. A clever footballing brain at times, Watt often plays a free role. However, as a fan, this can easily frustrate. Particularly if your decision making and positioning are poor.
To be a ‘luxury’ player, you need to have ability. Watt certainly does, so maybe this fresh start will give him the chance to unlock his best. However, as mentioned, this is his eleventh club and that mindset can only serve you so long.
If he’s not careful, he could end up with more clubs than Tiger Woods.
So has Watt been misused?
Some may say he’s a player that’s just fallen in the wrong hands. Watt is the type that likes to play behind the strikers and link up. Although, it appears he just seems to fall further and further back in some matches, hardly fitting for an attack minded player.
Watt’s last goal for the Saints came in a Tayside derby victory against eventually relegated Dundee. (photo by David Young/Action Plus via Getty Images)
He can still be a success. There’s pace and creativity, good movement, just perhaps missing a wee bit cutting edge for an out-and-out forward, should he play there. With just three league goals this season, none since Boxing Day, that’s all the proof that he isn’t perhaps a traditional number nine.
It’s a real shame that his career is panning out the way it is. That Barcelona goal should have been the making of him. Not necessarily at Celtic, but elsewhere. Hopefully for his own and Scotland’s sake, we’re yet to see the best of a very talented player.