Filip Benkovic’s Parkhead return looks a goer as the centre-back confirmed he would love to come back to Celtic next season.
Brendan Rodgers stated earlier this week that he wants the Croatian to return to Glasgow. Upon assessing his situation, the former Celtic manager admitted that Parkhead was the perfect place for him.
This comes with Benkovic’s loan contract set to expire at the end of the season. It was Rodgers who decided to bring him from Leicester on loan last summer.
Big question marks still existed over whether Benkovic himself would fancy a move back. But, speaking to Croatian publication Sportske Novosti via the Daily Record, Benkovic admitted he would be happy to extend his stay.
“When Brendan Rodgers left Celtic, he sent me a lot of nice words and told me he was very pleased with my performances. Whatever he decides, I’ll go along with.
“I have been really pleased with my season at Celtic. Of course, you can always do better, but I have played a lot of games at a very high level. Everyone at Celtic has told me they are happy with me.
“I have spoken to Neil Lennon. He told me that he would like me to stay at Celtic for another season.”
Any manager should want him back next year
This is a huge boost to Celtic in more ways than one.
Neil Lennon has never actually revealed why Benkovic dropped out of the team. One of the realistic scenarios, however, is that it’s due to the fact he’s a loan player. Lennon hasn’t given any of his loan stars anywhere close to frequent game-time.
But keeping him next year solves a key issue for Celtic. The Hoops would’ve had to replace both he and Dedryck Boyata if both departed. If we could keep the Croatian youngster for a further campaign, however, then it would mean we realistically only need one more centre-back in the door this summer.
Benkovic would be the ideal candidate. And if he does return, both Jozo Simunovic and Kristoffer Ajer can expect some serious competition.
It’s also terrific to see that Benkovic is up for the challenge too. Considering he’s only made 26 appearances this season, it’s interesting to see he wants to return given he’s played in less than half our games.
This is a great boost one day after the shocking 2-0 Ibrox defeat, however. If we can get Benko back next year, Celtic must pursue it at all costs.
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