Celtic left with striker dilemma
Stefan Scepovic’s departure to Getafe on loan raised expectations that a new striker was in the pipeline but with less than three hours left till the deadline for the Europa League it seems certain that Ronny Deila will have to choose between Leigh Griffiths and Nadir Ciftci for the matches against Ajax, Fenerbahce and Molde.
Bolton made an enquiry about Anthony Stokes earlier in the day but were unable to match his wages never mind come up with a transfer fee for the Irishman.
Deila’s formation only requires one striker but with Ciftci coming in from the cold it looks like the striking burden will fall on Leigh Griffiths over the next four months.
One step behind in the Development squad Michael Duffy and Paul McMullan have been sent out on loan to Alloa and St Mirren. In the three league matches played this season Stokes, Luke Donnelly and Ciaran Lafferty have played in the striking role. Donnelly has flourished as an attacking midfielder over the last six months while Lafferty’s goal at Hibs last week was his first strike at that level.
Aidan Nesbitt has scored four times in three Development League matches but has been used across the three attacking midfield roles.
While the striking question is the one on supporters minds tonight the signing of Jozo Simunovic is expected before the 11pm deadline tonight.
Terms have been agreed with Dinamo Zagreb with just the paperwork to be completed to ensure that the Croatian u-21 internationalist can sign up with a date with Ajax in Amsterdam to come before the month is out.
An out of contract player could be signed to play in Scotland but the Europa League deadline at 11pm Celtic Park Time looks certain to be passed without any striker signing.