Shim shining on international duty opens door for first Celtic start | OneFootball

Shim shining on international duty, helping his case for a starting role in Martin O’Neill’s Celtic side…

Shim Mheuka celebrates after scoring a goal which was later disallowed during the Scottish Premiership match between St. Mirren and Celtic at St Mirren Park on September 05, 2026. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

Celtic summer loan signing Shim Mheuka has made his mark at international level, scoring for England against France in the U20 Elite League in a 2- 1 win for Darren Moore’s young Lions.

The 18 year-old on loan from Chelsea has failed to find the net for the hoops so far, but was unfortunate to see an effort voided by VAR in a recent clash against St Mirren.

Shim has now sent out a timely reminder to Martin O’Neill by showing that he knows the way to goal as impresses with the England under 20s.

5th September 2026; The Marbill Coaches Stadium, Paisley, Scottish Premiership, St Mirren versus Celtic; Shim Mheuka of Celtic. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Goalkeeper Ollie Whatmuff set up the opener for the young Lions with a measured ball forward. Mheuka brought it down on his chest, turned away from the covering defenders and reached the edge of the penalty area.

He then passed the ball into the bottom-left corner with a side-footed finish.

Former the Rangers loanee Mikey Moore, a close friend of Shim’s, was also on the scoresheet for England U20s.

Mheuka has only made five appearances for the Hoops, with all of those coming from the bench, but the Celtic supporters are keen to see more of him, and his performances for the England side will only strengthen his case of a starting role after the international break.

13th September 2026; Ibrox. Scottish League Cup, the Rangers versus Celtic; Shim Mheuka of Celtic. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

The 18 year-old is a highly talent, and he has all the attributes to be a top class striker. It’s easy to see why he’s so highly rated down south.

Strong, pacy, and terrific on the ball, Shim has also shown that he can score, so supporters are naturally championing him for a starting slot, especially with our current woes in front of goal.

Will Martin O’Neill be willing to give the youngster that chance after the conclusion of the international break? One things for sure, Shim certainly deserves his chance to shine.

Play him at Motherwell!

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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