Chris Sutton believes that it is time for a parting of the ways between Celtic and Leigh Griffith.
It had been assumed that the striker was under contract until the summer of 2022 but this week it emerged that Celtic hold an option over whether or not to activate the final year of his deal.
Griffiths has to be informed by April 30 whether or not the club is taking up that option with the prospects of an extension looking bleak.
The former Hibs striker has been a peripheral figure over the last two and a half years with only a two-month purple patch at the start of 2019 to suggest that he can make a contribution going forward.
Griffiths’ ability has rarely been questioned but for a so-called natural finisher he looked well off it last week against Falkirk. Being replaced by Albian Ajeti after 62 minutes isn’t a good sign.
Looking at the situation, Sutton told the Daily Record:
A decision will need to be made about Leigh Griffiths but I don’t think anyone would be surprised to see him being allowed to go. I know that we’ve had our differences in recent times but I’ve always said he’s the best natural finisher in the country and a fit and firing Leigh Griffiths is a huge asset for Celtic.
But how often have we seen that in recent years? He turned the season around in three impressive months last year but it’s not happened this term. Griffiths has been a tremendous servant to Celtic but the writing has been on the wall for a while and football is a ruthless game. Will the new manager be able to hang their hat on him? The last few haven’t.
Howe will have his own ideas anyway and I’m sure he’s analysing the squad from afar. As for interest from other clubs, it’s his right to keep his options open, anyone else in that situation would do the same, and all Celtic can do is hope they sell him on the club.
Should Leigh Griffiths get another 12 month Celtic contract?
Yes, he is a guarantee of goals
No, time up, too many chances
Griffiths has scored one goal in 2021, at home to Hamilton Accies in January.