Celtic took on Wolves in the most high profile of their friendly games of this pre-season till now. While results mean very little at this point in time, these are good opportunities to build up fitness and match sharpness, as the campaign is not far away. The fans were left concerned though, by one absentee from the squad on the day.
Carl Starfelt was not part of the Celtic squad that took on Wolves. And that comes amidst speculation that he could be on his way out of Parkhead.
Unsurprisingly, many Celtic fans were left questioning whether it was a sign that Starfelt was on his way out this summer. The Hoops have signed a new centre-back recently in the form of Maik Nawrocki.
There is also the possibility that Starfelt might have picked up an injury. The Swede did have his fitness issues at the start of the previous campaign as well. That would not be ideal either, as Cameron Carter-Vickers is still recovering after undergoing surgery. That would leave a very inexperienced backline for the Hoops to start off the season.
Celtic fans worried as Starfelt left out of the squad
Starfelt often does not get the credit that he deserves, for how important he has been to this Celtic side. He has been a nailed-on starter for the club since arriving in the summer of 2021.
Admittedly, he has not been as dominant as his defensive partner, Carter-Vickers. But that does not mean that he has not played his part at the back.
Starfelt leaving this summer might be the wrong step for Celtic. At the same time, if a good offer arrived, it is not hard to see why the club might consider it. The Swede is 28 years of age after all. It would fit the Hoops’ transfer strategy to move him on and look for a younger alternative.