David Turnbull returns to the Celtic fold after completing a two-match suspension. The red card he picked up in the dying embers of the St Johnstone victory brought a premature end to his 2022 - a year of stagnation rather than progression.
The former Motherwell youngster enjoyed an accelerated rise, seamlessly transitioning from an emerging talent to a bonafide first-teamer. His composure and awareness defied his tender years, and his technical ability was akin to an expensive import rather than an unassuming local boy.
As a teenager, he became the unofficial leader of his boyhood club. A career- threatening knee injury discovered during his initial Celtic medical delayed his move to the big-time - but The Hoops had such faith in his potential that they revived their interest 12 months later.
Turnbull was the standout performer during his debut campaign at Celtic, the shining light during a winter of discontent, yet, over time, he has drifted towards the periphery. He missed 90 days of action last season with a hamstring issue, and unfortunately for him, his injury coincided with the arrivals of Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley.
The impressive form of Hatate and O’Riley allowed Turnbull to be eased back gradually, but muscling his way into the starting XI proved problematic. The 23- year-old is regularly relegated to the bench - earning the unwanted ‘impact player’ tag - and he has made just seven starts in all competitions this season.
Turnbull is an inventive performer, a creative spark and a risk-taker, but he lacks attributes valued by Ange Postecoglou; aggression and pace. The Australian demands a ferocious work ethic from his charges and doubts linger regarding the midfielder’s capacity to produce high-octane performances twice a week.
Since Turnbull was forced to the treatment table 12 months ago, Celtic have been close to perfect in the Premiership. Their boldness has brought recognition and earned silverware, and there has been little incentive for Postecoglou to deviate from his tried and trusted. Turnbull has been a victim of circumstance, he remains a fine footballer, but the team has flourished without him.
The impressive post-World Cup showings of Aaron Mooy are a further problem for Turnbull. He is still regularly called upon by Postecoglou to make a difference, entrusted to prise open a compact defence, although a reduced role is unlikely to satisfy a player once tipped to be Scotland’s midfield lynchpin.
Turnbull has collected five international caps, and his only start came during his debut against Netherlands 18 months ago. His career in dark blue has yet to blossom - and he has minimal chance of enhancing his Scotland prospects while used sparingly at club level.
The midfielder has 18 months remaining on his contract, and decision time over his future is fast approaching. The champions will, in all likelihood, seek to extend the deal of a valued asset - Scottish players are invaluable due to UEFA regulations - but Turnbull may be hesitant.
Turnbull would acknowledge that his lack of minutes for the league leaders impacts his Scotland aspirations. He turns 24 in the summer and remains a rookie at international level. Perhaps the midfielder envisages becoming a mainstay under Postecoglou in the months and years ahead, he has unwavering faith in his capabilities, yet doubts must linger.
The lure of England appeals to almost every player plying his trade in Scotland, but Turnbull has the technical ability to flourish beyond UK shores. A move may or may not transpire this summer, but he is too good to be viewed as an impact player for much longer.
Celtic welcome Kilmarnock to Celtic Park on Saturday, the first of a double- header with the Ayrshire club, and unless Turnbull is handed his first start since mid-November, he will again take up residency on the bench.
