Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has updated supporters on the situation of Olivier Ntcham, stating that the French midfielder now wants to stay at the club.
Ntcham appeared to say his goodbyes to the club in February after completing a loan move to Marseille.
However, he wants new opportunities at the Bhoys now Neil Lennon has left and Postecoglou is in place.
The Celtic boss told The Scottish Sun: “I had chats with him and he said he wanted to come back and make an impression this year.
“I take that at face value. He has been good at training.
“He is lacking a bit of match touch and fitness but he is part of the squad and hopefully he can make an impact this year.”
Postecoglou may be taking that at face value but supporters may need a little more convincing. It’s a huge u-turn from the midfielder.
Ntcham has never really shown the consistency needed at Celtic to be a major player at the club.
I don’t doubt his ability. Sometimes his vision in the middle of the park is something to behold. When he’s at his best he’s a European-level midfielder for the Bhoys.
However, across an entire season, I’ve yet to be truly convinced.
Perhaps Postecoglou can unlock something in him. It is ‘clean slate’ season after all.
If others, such as Boli Bolingoli, are getting a chance, why shouldn’t Ntcham?
If he’s looking good in training, then that’s also a positive. Let’s keep an open mind. If his effort levels are lacking, the manager will likely be the first to call it out.
In other news, Kristoffer Ajer could end up staying at Celtic this season.
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