Pat Bonner believes that Craig Gordon’s future should be at Celtic in order to continue winning trophies and experiencing European football.
Gordon has been second-choice to Fraser Forster all season. Overall, he’s only managed to make six appearances this term despite being in his twilight years as a professional footballer (Transfermarkt).
Earlier this month, Gordon looked ahead to the January transfer window and stated that it would be a “big” month for himself (BBC). That clearly showed he had an eye set on leaving Celtic given his current status.
Yet Bonner has encouraged the former Hearts man to remain exactly where he is despite his lack of game-time. Speaking in the Scottish Sun, the Parkhead legend believes there’s no better place for him than Celtic.
“It’s difficult for Craig. He’s done exceptionally well at Celtic. Craig is 36 years of age. His career got back on track at Celtic, he won medals and made money. If it was me and I was in his shoes, I would stay.
“I think his next step is getting into coaching and thinking about the next part of his career, so where else would you go where you are going to be involved in European football and winning trophies?
“He could still play for another couple of years and who knows what can happen? He could be back in the Celtic team at the drop of a hat.”
Many won’t settle for Gordon next season
Bonner makes some good points, but it looks seriously unlikely that Gordon will make his way back into the Celtic team permanently. Not this season or the next.
The problem the Scotland international has is that we’ve upgraded this season in Forster. Everyone can see the difference in quality when either man features. As good and experienced as Gordon is, he just can’t touch the Southampton-owned shot-stopper.
Therefore, if Forster heads back when his loan spell ends in the summer, who’s honestly going to settle for the man we currently have as back-up? Supporters, generally, will want a solid replacement, and one who fits the calibre of Forster too.
We all know how good Gordon is. You don’t win five Scottish Premierships, four Scottish Cups, and four League Cups if you’re a poor goalkeeper.
In truth, Gordon has impressed against the likes of AIK and Cluj this season. He’s still a reliable enough goalkeeper who we know can do a job when we put him in between the sticks.
But would the supporters honestly be happy at seeing Gordon come back permanently? It’s difficult to shake the notion that an upgrade would be required.
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