Graham Potter reacts to Shane Duffy's failed Celtic mission; mitigating factors

By John McGinley

May 7, 2021

Brighton boss Graham Potter has responded to Shane Duffy’s failed loan spell at Celtic and eventual return down to England.

The club confirmed the big defender has headed back to his parent club after a poor season in Celtic colours.

Duffy was a much-hyped signing and initially looked a good fit, netting two goals in his first two matches.

However, it all quickly went downhill from that point on. By November it had become clear his performances weren’t up to scratch and, save for a short spell in January, was never a regular in the team again.

As we discussed on 67 Hail Hail all the way back in October, there may have been mitigating factors.

It’s something Potter alluded to when speaking to reporters earlier today.

He told Sussex Live: “Shane trained with us this morning, but only lightly. So he is back here with us which is great to see. Yes he is [feeling okay]. He has had a tough time. Sometimes things in football don’t go as you would want them to go.

“Shane has had some tough challenges off the pitch, losing his father just before he went to Celtic which was a huge challenge for him, as you can imagine. He more than anybody would have liked it to work out better than it did up at Celtic but that is football.

“From our perspective, he is always welcome here. He’s been a fantastic servant to this club, well-liked in the dressing room, well respected, so it is important for us to help him get him back on his feet and to put him in an environment where he feels secure and enjoying his football.”

I genuinely hope it works out all the best for Duffy back in Brighton, or a new club next season.

Shane Duffy has been one of several failed loan signings this season / (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

I’ve never faulted his effort at Celtic and, it goes without saying, he’d have been trying his hardest to succeed at his boyhood club.

If any blame is to be dished out, it’s to those who scouted him and thought he’d be a good fit in this Celtic team.

Good luck back in England Shane!

In other news, Celtic tipped to make move for in form goalkeeper.