Martin O'Neill cast an eye over a 17-year-old Adam Idah in his final months as Ireland manager and saw a youngster blessed by a raw power he was sure would see his career motor.
The former Celtic boss was fuelled with hope by the sight of Idah and Troy Parrott leading the Irish attack at the 2018 UEFA Under 17 Championships in England.
But five years on from the Green Army’s charge to the quarter finals of that competition, O’Neill feared Idah’s footballing journey was grinding to a halt.
A bit part player at Norwich, the player himself has since admitted his career was stalling in Norfolk.
So when last year’s move to Celtic came about O’Neill admits he had doubts over the frontman’s chances of getting back on track in the Parkhead fast lane.
Twenty goals including t