Even the most pessimistic of fans would have expected Celtic to complete more than one loan signing past the halfway point of this January transfer window. Coming into it, the pressure was on the board. They did start on the right foot, bringing in Julian Araujo from Bournemouth for the rest of the season right before the Glasgow Derby. But since then, no other addition has been made to the squad.
There has been upheaval in the dugout and behind the scenes though. Wilfried Nancy was sacked after just eight games in charge, which had produced two wins. On the other hand, Paul Tisdale was shown the exit door alongside him, as it is believed that he was instrumental in getting the Frenchman to Parkhead.
Thankfully, Martin O'Neill answered the call in an hour of need for the second time this season. But he has not been given the backing that he deserves.
All the talk in recent days has been about potential signings, and failed attempts at that on the part of the Hoops. On the other hand, a 21-year-old midfielder has quietly completed his permanent exit from the club.
Celtic player quietly completes permanent exit while fans await signings
It is a piece of news that went on under the radar, perhaps due to the talk of signings taking up all the oxygen in the room. But Ben Summers has officially joined Ayr United on an initial loan to the end of the season, which will be followed by a further two-year permanent deal.
Summers made two senior appearances for Celtic. But those came back when Ange Postecoglou was the manager of the club.
There had been hopes that he would develop into a first-team player at the time. But it is safe to say that things did not quite turn out according to expectations for Summers. Now 21, and having made no senior appearance for Celtic in almost three years, it was time for him to take a decision on his career.
He has done that with this move to Ayr United. They have Scott Brown as manager, so the Celtic connection will still be there. We can only wish Summers the best of luck in his journey moving forward.
As for Celtic, this is another highly-rated youngster who failed to make the grade at the club. There simply is not a pathway available at this point.