Celtic are firmly into international break territory, so it is no surprise that attention has turned towards potential January transfer targets as supporters await the Bhoys’ return.
In the thick of it, Lennon Miller has emerged as the main topic of conversation among fans and pundits alike as he continues to shine for Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed a fine start to the campaign, registering four goals and three assists in 18 appearances across all competitions.
According to reports, Celtic will need to meet Motherwell’s £4 million price-tag for Miller, who is also attracting interest from Rangers and Liverpool ahead of the January transfer window.
Brendan Rodgers would need to exceed David Turnbull’s £3.25 million move to Parkhead in 2020, which would make the talent a record Fir Park sale if any move to the champions were to materialise.
Amid the speculation surrounding Miller’s future, Andy Walker has drawn his own conclusions on where he could potentially fit in at Celtic.
Andy Walker on Lennon Miller and Celtic’s midfield dynamic
Assessing Miller’s situation, Walker believes the rising star would find it hard to slot in ahead of Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate or Arne Engels in Celtic’s midfield three despite his high ceiling.
He explained when asked if he would start for the Bhoys [Go Radio]: “No, he’ll be like Luke McCowan. He would get into games in the Scottish Cup, the League Cup earlier rounds, the odd game when you’re playing Ross County at home and you want to make changes before a big European game.”
Later, he added when questioned on his response: “He would get a game Barry, but if you were playing against Rangers or a top Champions League side tomorrow, you pick your Celtic team and your midfield three is always McGregor, Engels and Hatate.
“I think they’re the top three; Lennon Miller doesn’t get in it. He would get some games, just as much as Luke McCowan has been playing some games. Can he develop enough to play 20 games or 30 games in a season? It’s a tall order because the level of competition is so high.”
Lennon Miller will need to face competition to develop
The party line from some is that Miller wouldn’t move to Celtic amid concern over a lack of minutes, but surely competition with talented players is a crucial part of developing to a point where he fulfils his potential.
Demonstrating excellent maturity amid his rise to prominence, the youngster had a wise head on his shoulders. More importantly, he has faith in his own ability, so surely he would be good enough to oust competitors for a slot in the side?
Circumstances also change in football. Even though Celtic’s midfield holds a distinct composition of talent just now, the club need to plan for the future, which is where Miller could fit in nicely.
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