Andrew Gutman’s MLS debut went just as well as he could’ve anticipated.
The Celtic defender is currently on loan with FC Cincinnati. It’s a deal that will actually keep him in the States until the end of the 2020 campaign. That means that the left-back will likely stay in the US for another year and three months.
It’s a huge move for Gutman as he looks to seriously take off with his footballing career. And yesterday, he played the full 90 minutes for Cincinnati in a fine 2-2 draw at Columbus Crew.
The left-back was constantly bombing up and down the left flank, and it’s clear he impressed the locals. Here’s a look at some of the reaction from Cincinnati supporters on his Twitter page:
https://twitter.com/realgiles5110/status/1160385829975613443
Gutman’s progress will intrigue
Gutman’s loan spell in the US is certainly extensive. But what makes it all the more intriguing is the fact that he’s joined the worst team in the MLS as it stands.
Cincinnati currently sit bottom of the Eastern Conference. They’re only on 18 points from 25 games, and have won just five matches all season. Therefore, if he can impress at such a struggling side, it will do wonders for his reputation.
This is a huge step up for Gutman after his loan spell with Charlotte Independence during the second half of last season. There, he featured on 11 occasions, and seemed to impress with his attacking verve.
It did seem odd at face value to see Celtic let him go to the MLS for such a long period of time. However, the reasons for it haven’t been released to the supporters. The fact he is there for so long could suggest that this is work-permit related.
As it stands, we could’ve done with the additional body to help for cover after Kieran Tierney’s departure. Gutman impressed in pre-season training camp. But it doesn’t look as though we’ll be seeing him back at the club for some time.
Hopefully, he can build on what was clearly a fine opening-day outing for him.
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