According to the latest reports from the Scottish Sun, Celtic are going to bring in Premier League winning fullback Danny Simpson on trial at the club. The right-back is currently a free agent after his contract with Leicester City expired last month.
Celtic’s need for a right-back
The right fullback position has been a problematic area for the club for quite some time now. Mikael Lustig departed from the club this summer, and the likes of Jeremy Toljan and Cristian Gamboa also moved away. Therefore the Bhoys only have Anthony Ralston as their only outright right-back option who is vastly inexperienced.
Lennon has also acknowledged the need of signing a right back. He recently said, ”Right-back is a priority, but we have a number of positions I’d like to strengthen like midfield and one or two attacking areas.”
Therefore it is no surprise to see the club trying to bring in someone like Simpson at the club.
What can Simpson bring to the table?
The 32-year-old came up from Manchester United’s academy but only made a handful of senior appearance for them before he was shipped away to Newcastle United. The fullback has the experience of playing in over 200 games in the Premier League. The English defender played a significant role for Leicester City when they won the Premier League in the 2015-16 campaign as Simpson started 30 of the 38 games that season.
However, Simpson has fallen down the pecking order since then, and he started just three games in the Premier League last season. The Englishman has decent pace with good defensive qualities.
He also has that physical side to his game which would stand him in good stead in the Premiership. However, his work rate can be questionable sometimes, and there will be days where he might put in a disappointing shift.
Should Celtic go for him?
Celtic’s situation is extremely dire in terms of options at right-back, and almost any signing might be a welcome addition. However, Simpson is past his prime and is already 32. He might be able to fill in for one or two seasons, but he isn’t going to be an outstanding option. Maybe as a backup option, the club can consider having him at the club. However, we think that the Hoops should aim higher and spend some decent money to land a long term young right-back.
