A key part of Ange Postecoglou’s summer recruitment plans could become clearer in the second half of the season, depending on the performances of Oliver Abildgaard.
Across the last three transfer windows, the Celtic manager has showcased his eye for a player, and the majority of his additions have been a success.
As we approach the 57-year-old’s fourth window whilst in charge at Parkhead, the Bhoys recruitment is already underway, with two new signings expected to be in the door by the 1st of January.
Postecoglou has confirmed that his recruitment team already have their plans in place for January, but they are ready to be proactive in the winter.
That being said, the Celtic squad is looking in great shape as we approach the second half of the campaign, and planning could already be underway for the summer transfer window in 2023.
Of course, there is a long time to go before we have to think about which players we might be signing ahead of the 2023/23 campaign. However, Ange Postecoglou knows that he and his recruitment staff must be ahead of the game.
So it would come as no surprise to hear that work and discussions have begun regarding some of the positions the club might be targeting next year.
Some of those positions may be determined by player exits or how some members of Postecoglou’s squad have performed this season.
And the performances in the second half of the season from one player, in particular, could have a big impact on the Hoops’ summer transfer plans.
Performances of Oliver Abildgaard could dictate key part of Ange Postecoglou’s summer recruitment
Oliver Abildgaard arrived at the club as Ange Postecoglou’s final piece of summer business, joining on a year-long deal from Rubin Kazan.
The Danish international was seen as one of the final pieces of the jigsaw to this Celtic squad, as the midfielder enforcer, we have been missing in Europe.
Despite supporter’s hopes, Abildgaard hasn’t really been given the opportunity to impress, with all of his competitive Celtic appearances coming off the bench so far.
Even with the absence of captain Callum McGregor, Matt O’Riley was trusted to fill in at the base of the midfield instead of his fellow countryman.
So, it started to beg the question of what the future may hold for Abildgaard at Celtic. But Ange Postecoglou has insisted on several occasions we will see the best of him in the second half of the campaign.
The former Socceroos boss clearly has some faith in the international midfielder, and going off his comments, we could see Abildgaard play more of a role when the Bhoys return in December.
At the same time, though, that also coincides with Callum McGregor returning from injury. So he still has a challenge ahead of him to break into the side.
Ultimately, the performances of Abildgaard in the second half of the campaign could have a significant dictating factor on the club’s summer transfer plans.
If he puts in top performances that helps the Hoops towards more trophy success, then you would imagine Postecoglou would be keen to sign him on a permanent basis.
However, on the other hand, if he flatters to deceive, then you would expect the club’s recruitment team will be going back into the market, looking for another sitting midfielder.
At this stage, it is all down to Abildgaard and how good his performances are when the chances arise over the next few months.
Here’s hoping we get the chance to see the midfielder in full swing and at his best in some crucial games in the second half of the season.
If not, then we are likely to see Ange Postecoglou target that position once again next summer.
In other news, Vissel Kobe release dressing room footage as Celtic recruit says goodbyes ahead of arrival.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
