Sebastian Tounekti vs Haissem Hassan: In-depth data shows clear winner in Celtic selection dilemma
Sebastian Tounekti has been performing to a higher standard than Haissem Hassan in Premiership games for Celtic this season.
Martin O'Neill was criticised for his decision to start Tounekti over Hassan by a big section of the Celtic faithful as the club lost 3-0 in the first Old Firm of the season on Sunday.
The Tunisia international struggled to make an impact before being whipped off at half-time, but there was little Hassan could do off the bench to stop Rangers running riot at Ibrox.
Celtic face two key fixtures in the next five days, with Ferencvaros and Rangers both visiting Parkhead in Europa League and Premiership fixtures.
O'Neill has been urged to drop Tounekti, who is emerging as something of a scapegoat for fans, from the starting eleven in place of Hassan, but their league stats tell a different story.
Neither player has set the Premiership alight this season, but Tounekti still deserves the chance to show what he can do in midweek.
Sebastian Tounekti outperforming Haissem Hassan in key metrics for league games
Tounekti and Hassan are battling for a spot on the wing in Hyun-jun Yang's absence at the Asian Games.
The Tunisian star has registered one goal and assist each in 10 games so far this season, while Hassan has provided one assist in seven appearances across all competitions so far.
Neither has particularly stood out, yet fans have slated Tounekti as he was at the club last season and so has had longer to adjust to demands and O'Neill's style of play.
When it comes to their stats in the Premiership so far, however, Tounekti has created 3.51 chances per 90 to Hassan's 1.90.
He has a higher xG per 90 so far, has made more successful passes per 90, and also provided more successful crosses per 90 too.
Tounektis' 4.68 dribbles per 90 outperform Hassan's 2.85, while he has also won 5.84 duels per 90 to the Egyptian's 5.39.
O'Neill should continue sticking by him in the starting lineup for now, particularly against Ferencvaros, as he is better suited to the left wing with Camilo Duran likely to play on the right flank.
What is O'Neill's view on Tounekti's form at Celtic?
O'Neill has defended his trust in Tounekti, insisting that he can replicate Yang's strong form from the left wing.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Celtic have no plans to sell Tounekti as the boss believes he can turn his career at the club around from being under fire with fans.
There is a growing view that his performances need to improve for him to feature regularly, but they are not prepared to let him leave in the January window.