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It’s unusual for one of Ange Postecoglou’s signings at Celtic to not be a success. But then, considering the number of players who have arrived at the club over the past 18 months, some are bound to struggle. And when the signs are clear that it’s not working out for a player at Parkhead, it appears that the manager does not hesitate in showing them the exit door.
Back in the summer, Oliver Abildgaard joined Celtic from Russian club, Rubin Kazan, on a loan for the season. He was set to add a bit more strength and size to the Hoops’ midfield, which they needed following the exit of Nir Bitton.
Hopes were high as he joined the Celtic squad to play alongside fellow signings from Rubin Kazan in Sead Haksabanovic and Carl Starfelt. But the Danish midfielder has struggled to make an impact in the Celtic first-team since arriving, and it now looks as though his time at the club might be cut short.
Abildgaard has never started a game till now and all nine of his appearances, totalling for 156 minutes of football, have come as a substitute, often late in a match. His longest time on the pitch came when Callum McGregor was injured in the first half away to RB Leipzig in the Champions League.
Struggling Celtic player’s contract set to be terminated
As reported by the Daily Record, Celtic are set to terminate their loan deal for Abildgaard, according to reports in Russia. The Hoops have reached an agreement with Rubin Kazan to cut short his time in Glasgow.
In the past players often seemed to hang around at the club even after their time and opportunities had passed them by. Under Postecoglou there seems a much more proactive stance taken and players are being moved on when appropriate.
That’s hard for some players but sensible for the club. And overall, it is a positive for the Hoops who are being linked with Tomoki Iwata already.