Brendan Rodgers’ arrival at Celtic in the summer has been so far so good for the Hoops. They are a long way ahead of their fellow Premiership clubs in the race for the title and just like the last few seasons, bagging the title seems to be a walk in the park for them this time too. However, everything, that is good, comes with a collateral damage and for Celtic, that one has been Nir Bitton’s struggles for opportunities. Before Rodgers’ arrival, he used to be a key player at Parkhead but this season has seen him starting just six Premiership games.
Brendan Rodgers has seemingly left the path clear for Nir Bitton to leave Celtic by suggesting that he would sanction a move for any player if it is in everyone’s best interests as reported by The Daily Record. How quick time changes! Just a few months back, Bitton was a target of Premier League giants Arsenal and now he is not even wanted by Celtic. Well, if Bitton leaves Parkhead right now, the best he could manage is probably English Championship and here are three ideal destinations for him in the second tier of English football-
Barnsley
Barnsley are having an impressive season in the Championship and right now are placed eighth in the League. Well, they have been performing beyond expectations and could very well achieve a place in the playoffs if they can stop conceding so many goals. The Tykes have conceded as many as 37 goals this season which is far from impressive. Bitton is a quality defensive midfielder who can make a strong impact at the club and help them become more compact defensively.
Norwich City
The Canaries were demoted back to the Championship this season and many expected them to claim their place in the Premier League immediately but things are not going well for Alex Neil’s side. Even though they are ninth in the League, eight points separate them from sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday and considering how poor their defending has been, there is very little chance that they will be able to reach playoffs. A defensive midfielder of Bitton’s quality might change the scenario and the Carrow Road side are rich with finances too. So, Norwich is obviously a likely destination for the Celtic midfielder.
Derby County
Derby County and playoffs- the two things have been more like synonyms in the last few seasons. Despite a dismal start to the season, the Rams have fought back in style and right now are seventh in the League, just two points behind the final playoff spot. Considering the job McClaren has done since taking over from Nigel Pearson, they can be hopeful of a playoff spot this season too and a quality addition like Bitton to the side can help them achieve their targets.
