Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain impressed in his first Celtic start but could not prevent a 2-1 loss to Hibernian. Punters may prefer cautious bets: back Oxlade-Chamberlain for creative returns (assists/key passes) or consider Celtic +1 Asian handicap rather than a straight win, given fitness questions and the team's recent inconsistency.
Oxlade-Chamberlain Starts for Celtic but Hibs Steal Late Win
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain made his first start for Celtic in Sunday’s Scottish Premiership clash with Hibernian, but the visitors dropped two vital points after a late Kai Andrews winner sealed a 2-1 defeat.
Match report: Early lead undone, red card shifts momentum
Felix Passlack gave Celtic the lead before Benjamin Nygren levelled to make it 1-1 at half-time. The hosts were reduced to 10 men in the second half when Aaron Trusty was sent off, yet Hibs managed to snatch all three points when Kai Andrews struck with three minutes remaining.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contribution
The 32-year-old played 60 minutes, leaving the pitch for Daizen Maeda. According to match statistics he touched the ball 59 times, completed 36 of 47 passes, attempted one shot (off target), made three defensive contributions and won two of six ground duels. He received a 6.4/10 rating from the statistics provider.
Form and fitness context
Oxlade-Chamberlain joined Celtic in February after six months without a club and has impressed in fleeting appearances, including a stoppage-time winner on his debut against Livingston and a 45-minute outing vs Kilmarnock as he builds match sharpness. Manager Martin O’Neill opted to start him as the England international ramps up fitness.
Fan reaction
Supporters offered mixed verdicts. Many praised his technical quality and forward intent — “clearly a level above” and “the only one with an ounce of quality” were common sentiments — while others questioned his mobility and current level, suggesting he “moves like a ten tonne truck” and may no longer be at his peak.
Player perspective
Oxlade-Chamberlain has spoken positively about life at the club, praising the atmosphere, the squad and his enjoyment of Scottish football, while admitting there is more work to do individually and collectively.
Looking ahead: Europa League and Old Firm on the horizon
Celtic travel to Germany for the second leg of their Europa League playoff against Stuttgart midweek, before a major Scottish Premiership clash with Rangers a few days later.
When Oxlade-Chamberlain scored at Celtic Park
Those fixtures will be key to assessing Oxlade-Chamberlain’s impact and Celtic’s form going forward.
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