As Celtic now shift their focus to the final stretch of the season, the completion of the January transfer window has left the squad facing some challenges. With minimal activity in terms of new signings, the return of Jota to his former stomping ground and the arrival of Jeffrey Schlupp on transfer deadline day have been the main highlights.
While the lack of incoming transfers may be a cause for concern among fans, former striker John Hartson sees the potential that Schlupp brings to the team. With his wealth of experience from over 300 Premier League matches, Schlupp’s versatility and ability to cover at left-back could prove invaluable, especially with Alex Valle’s loan being cut short and Kieran Tierney not set to return until the summer.
Ahead of Celtic’s critical two-legged showdown with Bayern Munich in the Champions League, manager Brendan Rodgers will be looking to ensure his squad is well-equipped for the challenges that lie ahead. The absence of a replacement for Kyogo Furuhashi has been a point of discussion, but Hartson remains optimistic about Adam Idah’s ability to step up and fill the void, particularly after his recent brace at Villa Park.
While fans may have hoped for more activity in the January transfer window, Hartson acknowledges the challenges of finding the right fit for the team. With Celtic looking to maintain their strong position in the league and make a mark in European competition, Rodgers will need to make strategic decisions to strengthen the squad in key areas. The coming months will be crucial as Celtic aim to secure silverware and continue their pursuit of success on all fronts.
