Martin O'Neill believes Sebastian Tounekti has the natural talent to fill the void left by Yang Hyun-jun.
The Celtic boss, however, thinks the winger can learn a few lessons from the South Korean.
Yang is on international duty with South Korea and will miss a series of important fixtures. This creates an opportunity for Tounekti to secure a regular starting position.
O'Neill has been impressed by the Tunisian's performance in attacking areas and sees his ability to challenge defenders from both sides as a strong asset. He said: "Seb's good; he's got really good ability around the edge of the penalty box.
"The thing I like about him is that he can go both ways."
Read more
-
The Rangers hero who sold Celtic ace on loan move to the 'wrong side' of Glasgow
-
Though he's only been at Celtic a week, 'outstanding' new star has impressed me
-
WATCH former Celtic star's 'world-class' assist after £22m summer transfer
O'Neill is keen for Tounekti to keep his confidence, even if things do not always work out. He added: "That's an easy comment for a manager to make, but it's different when you've lost it two times on the trot, and the crowd starts to get anxious.
"The next time you think you'll just lay it off. I don't want that; I want to still encourage people to go past them."
O'Neill highlighted the goal Tounekti scored against Kilmarnock as an example of what he can achieve when he comes inside. However, he believes Tounekti can improve on his decision-making in and around the penalty area.
While O'Neill sees promise in Tounekti, he pointed out that Yang should be his role model. He said: "At the moment Yang has done exceptionally well, and Yang does great work for us as well when we don't have the ball.
"Those are the things that I think Seb can pick up on and can learn. That should be his aim. I think Seb has natural talent.
"I think it's the other parts of the game that he's got to have a wider picture, but hopefully that will come."
