Celtic have endured a largely forgettable 2020/21 campaign, which fans and players alike will be glad to see the conclusion of and rebuild from.
Looking ahead to the summer, there are anticipated to be mass change afoot at Celtic Park on and off the pitch. With a large volume of on-field turnover expected at the Hoops, here are three players who could stay and play integral roles at the club moving into 2021/22.
Celtic rebuild hero #1 – Callum McGregor
Purely speaking, it is absolutely essential that the 27-year-old is at Celtic next campaign. Arguably the Celts most consistent player in recent years, he has racked up 320 appearances since coming through in 2014. His goal contribution rate has been excellent for Celtic, converting 53 times whilst laying on a further 63 for his team-mates [Transfermarkt].
His footballing intelligence, spatial awareness, and eagerness to break between the lines has shot him to the forefront of Scottish football. Earmarked as a future Celtic captain, his willingness to take on responsibility has shone through in 2020/21.
In a team that is set to lose a plethora of experience, keeping key assets such as the Scot could be pivotal to any chance of Celtic reclaiming the Scottish Premiership title at the first attempt.
Celtic rebuild hero #2 – David Turnbull
Probably the Hoops signing of the season, David Turnbull should be the player any new Celtic manager looks to build his team around. Signing from Motherwell last year, the 21-year-old has accumulated seven goals and six assists in 28 outings for the Celts [Transfermarkt].
Possessing wonderful technique, the mere threat of Turnbull’s presence on the ball is a cause of concern for the opposition. Able to either score from range, feed in team-mates or make late runs into the box, he is tailor-made for playing against low-block defences. Already a key man at the Celts, he will go on to become a Parkhead icon in the coming years.
However, his growing profile could attract interest from high calibre suitors which will need to be monitored accordingly.
Celtic rebuild hero #3 – Scott Brown
Celtic have to keep a hold of Scott Brown in some capacity going forward. His winning mentality, leadership qualities and experience will be vital during the transition process. The 35-year-old should by no means be a regular starter in 2021/22. Despite this he still possesses an ability to impose himself on games, as seen in the 1-1 stalemate against Rangers.
An older head amongst an inexperienced crop of new players is never a bad idea. Brown can perform this function, possibly leading him towards the coaching trade once his playing career finishes.
He could be a key figure in helping Celtic transition to a new era.
Elsewhere on 67 Hail Hail, Chris Sutton has urged Celtic to end speculation on Brown’s future.
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