Remember when Celtic youngster Ewan Henderson played in a Europa League win [BBC]?
Coming on for the injured Jeremie Frimpong, the Celtic academy graduate slotted in seamlessly. Not for a moment did the young midfielder look out of place in Europe’s second-tier competition. It was vital experience for Henderson. He hasn’t seen much game-time since then.
It was clear that night he was possible of being benefit to a club. Albeit, that club was unlikely to be Celtic in the short-term. So, the Courier’s reporting of Dundee’s interest in the midfielder is welcome news indeed.
According to The Courier, Dundee have “moved to bolster their central midfield options and await a decision from the Hoops on the 20-year-old.”
Clubs below Premiership level are able to agree loan deals until the end of Feburary, and Henderson hasn’t secured any significant minutes since his Europa League exploits. Much like his fellow midfield prospect, Luca Connell, Celtic have a decision to make here.
Celtic loaning Ewan Henderson to Dundee suits both parties
Henderson spent some of last season on loan at Ross County. However, he only made 10 appearances and was recalled due to lack of first-team exposure.
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With improvements in his game, and Dundee playing in the Championship, you’d expect that wouldn’t be the case under James McPake. The Dundee manager has already got Jonathan Afolabi in on loan, and his development has been notable since joining the Dark Blues.
Celtic have a rake of young talents coming through, but no games to play. All Scottish football below the second tier is suspended. This means the likes of Luca Connell, Ewan Otoo and others are kicking their heels instead of getting first-team minutes.
It makes perfect sense for player and club, here. Celtic won’t use Ewan Henderson regularly in the back half of the 20-21 season, with a multitude of options ahead of him. Soro, McGregor, Turnbull, Christie, Brown and Rogic are all ahead of Henderson, so it stands to reason that any academy graduate won’t benefit a great deal from staying.
Celtic need to be more proactive in ensuring steady development for their youngster. One substantial appearance in a season won’t do, even if it is against Lille.
This is a move that would benefit all parties, on paper at least. We’re hoping Celtic and Dundee can get it done.