Amid all the speculations on the backroom overhaul, the Hoops would have a few decisions to make this summer over the future of an array of stars. According to La Provence, Marseille won’t tie down Celtic midfielder Olivier Ntcham on permanent terms following his controversial winter loan to Stade Vélodrome.
The Frenchman made 150 appearances for the Bhoys but was keen on a return to his homeland for quite some time. The Ligue 1 giants offered him an exit route, however, the transfer led to huge controversy leading to manager Andre Villas-Boas’ dismissal. The Portuguese strongly opposed the move, but the management opted to ignore his viewpoint before tying the player down on loan with an option to buy for a fee in the region of £4.5m.
Things have not gone in favour of Ntcham either. He was taken off at half-time twice in his three league appearances, whereas the other one turned out to be a cameo against Bordeaux during the final half an hour. The 25-year-old could not impress much in a couple of Cup outings and therefore, is now set to return to Parkhead to give it another shot with a year left in his Celtic contract.
The Bhoys are expecting a mass exodus to reconstruct the current squad. Rangers have surpassed them in every department en route to reclaiming the Scottish crown after decade-long despair, but the scenario might alter within months if the board succeeds to appoint an able alternative of Neil Lennon.
Why The Player Has All The Attributes To Shine Despite The Marseille Disappointment
The Northern Irishman deployed Ntcham sporadically ever since he revealed his disappointment following a failed move to Porto and it is to be seen now whether the player regains his place under Lennon’s successor. His all-round ability in the middle of the park earned him a lot of accolades in Scotland, but the ‘untimely‘ comments hampered his development, particularly when he was delivering astounding performances week in week out.
Celtic midfielder Ntcham still has a lot to offer considering his ability to feature as a double pivot, operate box-to-box as well as in a ‘number 10’ role. He loves to fit in as the chief ball carrier with his strong down the middle runs before operating in the advanced areas. His passing, pressing and shooting traits are exquisite, also the one-twos and smart link-ups depict his expertise. Having said that, the former Manchester City prodigy must act in a sensible manner and grab the next opportunity, be it at Parkhead or elsewhere.
