Over the last week Davie Provan and Chris Sutton have both made similar comments about Celtic’s lack of transfer activity.
One of those pundits can do little wrong in the eyes of supporters while the other is viewed more suspiciously- strangely both hold similar views and it’s a thought that has gone through the minds of most supporters over the last few weeks.
With only Odsonne Edouard signed since the Scottish Cup was lifted in May Provan and Sutton have suggested that Brendan Rodgers’ isn’t getting fully supported in the transfer market.
The dilemma for supporters to get their heads around is the clearly successful club policy of buying in younger emerging talent to nurture into players capable of making an impact in the Champions League- or at least getting through the qualification process.
Rodgers has managed that brilliantly, the squad he has assembled could be sold off for over £100m but supporters want to see success, progress and development- on the pitch.
The manager does as well but with the improvement in his squad it becomes harder to add a Dembele, a Ntcham or an Edouard to what he already has.
Rodgers said: “No matter what my feeling is I have to respect where the club is at.”
The Irishman has gone public saying that there is little need to stock up his squad- the requirement is for ready made quality which isn’t generally available within budget unless they are in the French u-21 squad.
Last night’s comments hint at some frustration for the first time from Rodgers.
Expectations from supporters has been lowered. Signing one defensive starter would be very welcome, someone of the calibre of Kris Ajer that can develop along the lines of Kieran Tierney.
Until that transfer is made the murmurings and doubts will continue with Provan and Sutton echoing the thoughts of many fans.
