Jack Hendry says he is finding life easier in Belgium, because he was used to playing under pressure for Celtic.
The defender, signed by Brendan Rodgers in 2018, had a debut to remember for loan side Oostende last weekend. Hendry struck in the 95th minute to earn them a first league win of the season away to KV Mechelen.
It was the first time he had played since February, but he’s now looking forward as he reflected on the differences between Scotland and his new home.
He told the Daily Record: “I can handle the pressure of playing for this club because at Celtic there was pressure in every game.
“I think the Belgian League is a higher level than in Scotland.
“Here in Belgium, you have several strong clubs like Club Brugge, Standard Liege, Genk and Anderlecht.
“But in Scotland, we have only Celtic and Rangers, with a few good teams underneath them.
“If you don’t play for either Celtic or Rangers, you won’t be thought of as playing at a high level, that’s my opinion.”
Hendry can still forge a positive career
It is interesting to hear Hendry refer to the change in pressure now he has moved to a smaller club.
The 25-year-old did often look like a man unable to deal with the scrutiny at a club like ours, although he always gave his best.
Hopefully he can get his career back on track in Belgium and earn a permanent move at the end of his loan stint.
He’s still young enough to have a positive career and can look at the likes of Teemu Pukki for inspiration.
Just because you don’t make it with us, doesn’t always mean that your career is heading for failure.
In other news, Some Celtic fans have criticised the Scottish Government over double-standards
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