MK Dons fans left gutted as Matt O’Riley nears Celtic move

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MK Dons fans are getting used to the idea of star midfielder Matt O’Riley departing for Celtic, and have been reacting online.

The Athletic reported earlier today that Celtic were nearing a £1.5m transfer for O’Riley. MK Dons’ star man has netted 7 goals and set up 6 more from central midfield in 21-22 [Transfermarkt].

O’Riley could even be signed in time for Celtic’s Scottish Cup clash with Alloa Athletic on Saturday, after Ange Postecoglou made a personal pitch for the former England youth international [Daily Mail].

Ex-Fulham Academy talent O’Riley has been a key presence for MK Dons. O’Riley was also wanted by Swansea City and Tony Mowbray’s Blackburn Rovers, according to the Daily Mail. However, it looks as if Celtic will land the midfielder, who’s having a medical in Glasgow.

For MK Dons fans, it’s not the most welcome news. O’Riley was second in both goals and assists for the Dons this season, averaging 0.25 goals a game from central midfield. He’ll be the fifth signing for Celtic this window, after Reo Hatate, Yosuke Ideguchi, Daizen Maeda and Johnny Kenny all joined the Hoops.

The consensus among MK Dons fans, online at least, is positive about the potentially incoming Celtic signing. His composure on the ball and technical ability were widely praised today on Twitter, as news began to emerge about a potential move.

“Robbery”; Potential Matt O’Riley departure to Celtic is a sore spot for MK Dons supporters

Clearly, O’Riley has impressed in Milton Keynes since leaving from Fulham.

A mobile, box-to-box midfielder, the ex-England youth talent could be a perfect back-up, or compliment to, Reo Hatate, who enjoyed a fantastic Celtic debut.

For MK Dons fans though, it’s not the most fun. Here are some reactions from supporters online:

We should hear whether Celtic have sealed the deal before too long. If Celtic make O’Riley their fifth signing of the window, Ange Postecoglou and Michael Nicholson will be able to reflect on a job well done.

Even if it’s just the 19th of January.

Read more: SPFL coach lauds “truly wonderful” Celtic midfielder David Turnbull