Former Rangers player Steven Naismith made some interesting predictions about what will happen to Celtic should the Hoops lose to Sarajevo in the Europa League play-off, whilst appearing on the BBC Scottish football podcast.
Naismith, who currently plays for Hearts, predicted that players will depart from Celtic should the Hoops be knocked out of European football altogether on Thursday evening.
“Definitely be one or two go out the door”
“They’ve been signed with the viewpoint of come, develop and move on eventually. I think if Celtic weren’t to go through there’d definitely be one or two go out the door. I think the club’s shown that in previous years when they’ve not made Champions League they’ve ended up players” Naismith said, whilst appearing on the BBC Scottish football podcast (33:01, 30/09/20).
However, Naismith’s comments are completely different from what Celtic boss Neil Lennon says will happen. As reported by 67HH, the Hoops boss has said that the club are determined to keep their biggest players.
Naismith’s comments sound like wishful thinking from a former Rangers man, to be honest. It would be a real boost for the Ibrox side’s title bid if two of Celtic’s best players left before the transfer window closes.
Hoops boss will know what is going on
However, Neil Lennon will know what is going on with Celtic more than any pundit. This year more than any other, Celtic will be determined to hold on to the club’s best players.
In the past players might have departed due to failure to make the Champions League. With 10 in a row on the line, Celtic know that selling a player won’t go down well with the club’s support. Especially if there isn’t enough time to get a replacement in.
Only time will tell on the matter. However, it will be a bit of a shock if a few big name players exit Celtic on the back of a Europa League exit. The Hoops seem determined to keep the squad together this season.
In other news, Neil Lennon’s comments suggest that Celtic won’t be buying a right-winger.
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