The Celtic Bhoys
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Celtic not closing door on Patrick Roberts return

By Andrew Coppens

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - MARCH 12: Celtic captain Scott Brown and Patrick Roberts at the final whistle during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Rangers FC at Celtic Park on March 12, 2017 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - MARCH 12: Celtic captain Scott Brown and Patrick Roberts at the final whistle during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Rangers FC at Celtic Park on March 12, 2017 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images) /
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There is little question that Patrick Roberts was one of Celtic’s best players by seasons end in 2016/17. However, he wasn’t Celtic’s to keep and Manchester City recalled the loanee without a further deal being struck.

After a month of hot pursuit and talks between the two clubs, a deal appeared dead. Roberts returned to Manchester City, with manager Pep Guardiola unsure of how Roberts would fit in to his squad.

But, with Celtic missing Moussa Dembele for a few months and fellow striker Leigh Griffiths struggling through a calf injury at the moment, desperation is setting in. Fans are calling for Ryan Christie to come back in the team for crying out loud.

However, one option that Celtic and manager Brendan Rodgers have quietly kept open is the hope that Roberts would still be available. Rodgers opened up about the fact that they have been paying attention to his progression and status with the Sky Blues.

“Pat would be amazing for here,” said Rodgers, via the Daily Mail. “I think everyone could see that.

“But it all goes down to, one, Manchester City and how they see his future there. He has obviously gone away on tour with them and got some game-time. They will make a decision after that.”

Roberts certainly would help solve the issue up front. He played that role a few times for the Bhoys last season and played well. His individual ability and nose for goal are exactly what is missing in anyone else that would play up top.

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With James Forrest and Jonny Hayes largely just mediocre so far this early season, it is likely Roberts comes in as the first option on the team sheet on the right side of midfield anyway.

Even if Roberts comes back to Celtic, he won’t be immediate help though, as he is currently with Man City in the United States playing in the International Champions Cup as Rodgers noted.

However, he could be in a situation where he is exactly what Celtic needs and wants while Manchester City won’t give him the game time needed to progress individually in his career.

Don’t be surprised to see Celtic pushing hard for a decision by City in the coming weeks here. It certainly would be a massive help on the wing and up top.

But, Rodgers also admitted the club may be in the market for another winger who can play up top as well…even if it isn’t Roberts.

‘We would maybe look at a winger who can also play as a striker,’ said Rodgers. ‘Certainly, getting through we wouldn’t want to be in this position if we can help it.

‘We had four wingers last year with Gary Mackay Steven, Scotty (Sinclair), Pat and James (Forrest). Now we only three.”

Next: Is Scottish footballing level the reason for no 3rd striker target?

Clearly Rodgers sees the need for more parts to the puzzle should Celtic advance past Rosenborg. That’s the good news…the bad news? It may not be Roberts, and given his quality last season that wouldn’t be fun.