The former Hoops hero believes the £5million winger is suffering from a serious crisis of confidence and has become increasingly easy for defenders to handle. Tounekti has endured a difficult start to the season and was left out of Martin O'Neill's squad for the 7-1 rout of Hearts after a disappointing display in the Europa League defeat to Benfica.

While McGeady insists there is talent in the Tunisian's game, he fears the winger has failed to add the variety needed to thrive at a club where wide players are expected to decide matches.

The former Republic of Ireland international said Tounekti relies too heavily on trying to beat opponents for pace before cutting back onto his stronger foot, leaving him predictable when he comes up against stronger and quicker defenders.

McGeady, speaking exclusively to the Celtic Way, ahead of In Good Company, a new live football event at SWG3 on November 1, said: "I think he's too one-dimensional, to be honest, as a winger. He goes down the line and then cuts back. He always slows the game down too much for me as well.

"There is some talent there but now time is passing as to when you're actually going to see it.

"You get a bit of grace when you sign and people put up with inconsistent performances. But when they're becoming the norm rather than your good games being the exception, you're not going to be in the team for very long."

The comments come at a difficult time for Tounekti. Jota is back in contention, Yang is closing in on a return and youngster Callum Osmand has emerged as an exciting attacking option.