In a month when incomings were always going to take centre-stage, it’s vital not to underestimate the importance of trimming the fat.
So far, Celtic have managed to let Scott Sinclair depart for Preston whilst allowing Lewis Morgan to agree a deal to join Inter Miami. The latter looks like a deal that’s close to being completed even if it hasn’t officially been announced just yet. (Daily Record).
With the Sinclair deal being completed last week, this represents an unusually assertive start to January for the Hoops regarding outgoings. Whilst both Sinky and Morgan were often both part of matchday squads, they simply weren’t good enough to contribute enough at the club.
Sinclair was also on a reported £40k-per-week at Parkhead (Scottish Sun). That adds up to around £2m-per-year. A popular theory is that Sinclair deserved some form of send-off. If Celtic were to wait until the end of the season to give him a nice cameo, it could’ve cost them well over £500k to keep him on if the Sun’s report is true.
Good business from the Hoops
Celtic can’t go making irrational business decisions just because we’re getting closer to the 10. Getting rid of high-earners who aren’t contributing enough is always a plus. Getting a fee for both players makes it a bonus.
As for Morgan, there’s no point pretending that he has untapped potential that could see him make it at Parkhead. He’s now 23 and there’s no sign he’s anywhere near good enough for regular first-team football here.
Too often have we allowed players who aren’t contributing to stay for another six months. Whether that be down to not finding them a club or simply hoping they make some form of impact, it happens too often. The departures of Sinclair and Morgan represent decisive action from the Hoops. You can’t fault the club for that.
In truth, there are plenty of others who should be following the duo out the door too. We still have the likes of Eboue Kouassi, Vakoun Bayo, and Jack Hendry who all don’t look like offering us anything. If Celtic could manage to push more deadwood out of the door, that’ll free up much-needed wages to bring in more impactful players.
Sinclair and Morgan should hopefully just be the start. Too many players at Lennoxtown aren’t offering us enough for the money they’re on. January, whilst being a month to prioritise new signings, gives us the chance to clear out those who aren’t contributing.
Nobody can say Sinclair and Morgan weren’t in that bracket. Celtic acted quickly on both players, and they deserve huge credit for their positive start in trimming the squad fat.
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