Celtic have been connected to another player during this summer transfer window. But, does this rumour have any merit?
Another rumour, another possible signing, another familiar story but perhaps one that offers more chance of coming good than many others. There’s some logic, substance and possibility in the story that’s breaking out for Celtic.
Hoops fans were keen in the past to try and keep Patrick Roberts with the club one way or another when his previous loan spell was coming to an end. There are suggestions around, voiced by Frank McAvennie in a Football Insider interview reported by oneboro.co.uk, that a return could be on the cards.
McAvennie reckoned Celtic should make a move for the Manchester City winger and get his skills back to Parkhead:
"“I do not know what is happening with Elyounoussi and if they re-sign him I do not see the need for Roberts.“The fans would love to see him back though because he was a wonderful player. I wouldn’t rule out bringing him back. He did very well at Celtic and he loved it.“If he has not got a career elsewhere it would be nice if he returned but I think any move would be reliant on Elyounoussi though.”"
Roberts hasn’t really hit the headlines for his play since leaving Celtic and although technically he’s been back with Manchester City, he’s been out on loan at various clubs. Spells at Girona, Norwich and Middlesbrough all promised plenty, but fizzled out with injury playing a part. He’s still looking for a football home and successful playing time.
That’s certainly something Celtic can provide in exchange for his outrageous skills when he is on form. The opportunity at Middlesbrough may change with Neil Warnock drafted in to lead a battle against relegation. But in reality, Roberts skills and wizardry on the ball probably aren’t what Warnock will look for to shore up the defence, fight hard against the opposition and pick up much needed survival points.
Previously, it was only a large transfer fee and deal that would secure his services for Celtic, the current financial situation and indeed his lower profile and opportunities makes it a much more feasible option at a lower and less significant cost. Manchester City are likely to take a long hard look at their huge squad now the league is over, and deals will surely be available to move players like Roberts on.
Would Roberts entertain a return? Well, his last twitter post in April is a retweet of video clips of himself running riot in a Celtic shirt. Although his best mate Kieran Tierney has moved on, Roberts had a great time in his last spell with the club. If he can prove his fitness he’ll get opportunities goals and success. Celtic fans are a bit mixed on the possibility, but they’d soon get behind Roberts when he is on form and on the pitch providing goals and assists for Odsonne Edouard and Leigh Griffiths.
If the price is right, the time may well be too. Let’s bring him home!