Gustaf Lagerbielke became another of Celtic’s summer window casualties earlier this week when he joined Twente on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
Brendan Rodgers paid tribute to his professionalism ahead of the now-confirmed exit, detailing that the Sweden international spent weekends training at Lennoxtown while the first team were in action.
He stated: “It’s been a difficult move for him but I have to say he’s been absolutely brilliant – every day in training. I recognise how difficult it has been for him at times not to be on the bench and to be training here as a small group on a Saturday morning or Sunday morning.”
Struggling to make an impact at Celtic following his move from Elfsborg last summer, Lagerbielke made just ten appearances in green and white, scoring once against Feyenoord.
Now with a chance to shine in the Eredivisie, Twente sporting director Arnold Bruggink has made a financial admission about his move to the Netherlands.
Twente sporting director makes Gustaf Lagerbielke admission
Speaking about Lagerbielke’s loan move, Bruggink admitted Twente couldn’t afford to insert an option to buy into his agreement. Nevertheless, he believes the Swede will suit life at De Grolsch Veste.
He stated [Daily Record]: “We knew there would be no option to buy with Gustaf in advance. Of course, you would prefer to have your own players, but we also have our own younger guys in his position, who can still grow next year and we also have to look at the finances.
“We can’t just spend the amount wanted to get players. We had a number of candidates in mind, but we didn’t want to wait around to see if something else would come our way. You have to act when you are convinced that you have found the right player. That’s what we did. We had Gustaf in our sights for a while.”
Later, he added: “I was looking for a stable player, someone who can easily adapt in a short period of time and who also has a bit more experience. We found that person in Gustaf. He has height, can really defend and, very pleasantly, can play left and right in the centre of defence.
“At Elfsborg he made a name for himself as a footballing defender. During that period he played two international matches for Sweden. He left for Celtic, where different things were asked of him. We think he is very suitable for our style of football.”
Gustaf Lagerbielke deserves a chance to flourish at Twente
Unfortunately, Lagerbielke’s spell at Celtic hasn’t worked out. For whatever reason, it became apparent quite early into his time at the club that he wasn’t nailed a nailed on part of Rodgers’ plans.
That doesn’t mean he isn’t a good player. His move to a reputable side that participated in Champions League qualification offers the defender a chance to flourish in a high-stakes environment.
Twente will look after him, but it remains to be seen what the long-term for Lagerbielke should he return to Celtic Park. Ideally, he performs well, and Celtic get the opportunity to make some money back on his fee later down the line. Best of luck to him.
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