Celtic are yet to sign a right-back even though their season is underway after going past Sarajevo in the first round of the Champions League qualifiers. The Hoops played with Kristoffer Ajer in that role who did an excellent job. However, Sarajevo did not put up much of a fight, and Ajer isn’t going to be a reliable option against tough opponents.
The club have reportedly (The Scottish Sun) brought in Premier League winner Danny Simpson for a trial. The 32-year-old is currently a free agent after his contract with Leicester City had expired. It remains to be seen now whether the former Manchester United player will be able to impress in his trial.
Darren Bent’s view on Celtic signing Simpson
Former England international Darren bent believes that Simpson will be an astute signing for the Bhoys. Speaking to Football Insider, the former Tottenham striker said, ”He’s been around the block, so he knows the game, he’s a great signing for them because they know what they’re going to get from him. Every game you’re going to get seven out of ten, solid performer, consistent, knows his job. It’s a very astute signing.”
Lack of ambition from the Hoops
Bent might be hyping up his fellow countryman, but we aren’t too sure about this signing from Celtic. The defender played a significant role in Leicester City’s surprising title triumph in the 2015-16 campaign. However, he is past his prime and started just three games for the Foxes in the Premier League last season.
The lack of ambition from Celtic in signing a right-sided fullback is shocking as that is one area where they have needed a replacement for quite some time. The club allowed as many as three right-backs go in the summer and they are yet to sign one. Hatem Abd Elhamed is close to signing, but he is more of a centre back who can fill in as a right back. Celtic are supposed to be in excellent financial condition. Fans should be disappointed with this if someone like Simpson is their first-choice right-back for the next season.
The Englishman indeed has a wealth of experience playing at the toughest level, but we can only see him as a backup option. He is already 32 and isn’t going to be around for long. Celtic will be bringing in mediocrity when they should be going after standout options especially after the way Rangers have strengthened this season.
Going after a 32-year-old free agent and a £1.6m signing to solve a problematic area like right-back shows the club’s lack of ambition. Hopefully, with still some time left in the market, Celtic will go on to sign a young and standout option.
