Jonny Hayes to Aberdeen should’ve been one of the most certain deals to happen in the transfer window.
It should’ve been regarded as a convenient deal for all parties. Aberdeen were getting a fine player whilst Hayes himself would be getting game-time. Considering Aberdeen wanted him on-loan, it would’ve given Hayes the chance to get himself back on form.
But the report from TEAMtalk about Celtic pulling the plug on Hayes is a tad baffling from us if accurate.
Hayes’ natural position is down the left-flank. He can also play down the right, where he’s played in most if his seven appearances so far this season.
Yet, Brendan Rodgers has already come out this season and claimed that Celtic have “a million wingers”. One of those is Hayes, and Rodgers’ comments alone show that they can afford to let him go.
Down the left-side, Hayes has Mikey Johnston, Scott Sinclair, and potentially Oliver Burke for competition. Down the right, it’s James Forrest and Burke once again. Hayes is hardly a necessity, and it’s certainly not worth keeping him to play rarely as opposed to letting him find his feet again at Pittodrie.
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An unfortunate Celtic career to date
So far in his Celtic career, the Irishman has largely been unfortunate. On occasions when he has managed to build up some momentum, he’s been struck by injury.
We spoke last week about how the lack of interest in Hayes was a concern. But now apparently the club have had interest and not entertained it.
A broken leg last season has set him back massively, and at the moment, he’s only being used when the situation really demands it.
But a move back to Pittodrie would’ve been great for everyone. Celtic could’ve gotten a player back in the summer back in form and ready to kick on again. Instead, the club are happy to keep him rotting on the bench.
Some elements of the support may feel he’s a good option to have. That argument is understandable. Bur surely he’s not someone Celtic need to achieve their targets between now and the end of the season.
He may even still be off between now and the end of the window. But if the decision to keep him instead of letting him rediscover himself at the Dons is true, it’s difficult to get your head around.