Transfers

Celtic’s stance on Matthew Anderson’s future as left-back situation takes shape

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers made a point of fielding several youngsters in pre-season and allowing them to showcase their talent.

Left-back Matthew Anderson earned minutes during the pre-season tour of the United States, impressing against DC United, Manchester City and Chelsea while on the pitch.

Labelled ‘excellent’ by Peter Grant following his series of appearances, there was hope among some Celtic supporters that he could enter the first-team picture this campaign.

Greg Taylor remains the only left-back on the books at Celtic Park with quantifiable senior experience. Anderson spent last campaign out on loan at Admira Wacker, registering one goal and six assists in 22 appearances in a commendable spell.

Now, reports have come to light regarding where his future lies at the club as the window descends into its final stages.

Matthew Anderson could be sent out on loan again

According to Football Scotland, Celtic are set to make Anderson available for another loan move before the deadline as their left-back situation continues to take shape.

Sky Bet League One outfit Reading are said to be keen on bringing the Scotland Under-21 international to the Madjeski Stadium for the campaign.

Brendan Rodgers of Celtic walks out of the tunnel before a match between Manchester City and Celtic at Kenan Stadium
Photo by Eston Parker/ISI Photos/Getty Images

With the demand for a left-back to come in at Celtic louder than ever, it may come as a surprise to some that a promising young talent capable of playing the position could depart this summer.

Nevertheless, at 20 years of age, he needs regular minutes to continue developing. Ultimately, if that isn’t going to be in Glasgow, the reigning Scottish champions have to find an alternative environment for the youngster.

The Celtic left-back hunt before the deadline

This is familiar territory, isn’t it? Celtic are in the market for a left-back before the deadline, and several candidates have come to the fore over the last few days.

Liverpool’s Owen Beck is still of interest to the Bhoys, with his parent club open to a permanent sale. Loaning the Welshman in remains a possibility, but that should only be considered as a last resort to avoid developing someone else’s talent.

Celtic have also enquired about Ajax defender Owen Wijndal alongside Werder Bremen. The Dutch giants are open to offers after the Netherlands international spent last campaign on loan at Royal Antwerp.

His contract at the Johan Cruyff Arena runs until 2027. Under two weeks of the window remain and time is of the essence for the Bhoys to bolster depth in the position or they will be left short.