Colby Donovan has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Celtic, and is naturally gaining attention.
The 19-year-old has come into the first team as a result of a long-term injury to Alistair Johnston and problems with Anthony Ralston.
Despite the pressure, the defender has come into the team and shown he belongs here with some eye-catching displays.
However, the arrival of Julian Araujo in January means there is more competition for places and that has led to Dundee reportedly reigniting their interest over a loan move.
Dundee were knocked back in their attempt to loan Donovan in the summer. They should be given that same treatment again.
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Colby Donovan is the future of Celtic
Loaning out Donovan now would be another slap in the face when it comes to the Celtic academy.
Time and time again, the Hoops have been too cautious with younger players, which has eventually led to them seeking a challenge elsewhere.
Donovan has had a taste of senior football, and proved he can handle it. That should be rewarded.
Additionally, aside from Johnston, are any of the other options good enough?
Ralston has been slammed for his recent displays and while Araujo could be a smart pickup, is only on loan and unlikely to be here next season.
That leaves the 19-year-old as the only other viable option. He will get plenty of minutes interchanging with Johnston, and may even compete for a starting spot in the not too distant future.
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Colby Donovan is better than Dundee
No disrespect to Dundee, but Donovan has shown he has the minerals to compete at the upper end of Scottish football.
Dundee may have enjoyed a decent run of form, but the right-back is already at a level where he would be competing for one of the ‘better’ clubs elsewhere.
If he was to go out on loan, somewhere south of the border may be better to test his credentials.
However, that should be a last resort. Donovan is the future of Celtic, and they know that too.
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