Celtic exceeded all expectations over the two legs against Bayern Munich, giving the Bundesliga giants a real run for their money. It is safe to say that they earned the respect of a lot of people, losing narrowly on aggregate and earning a draw away at the Allianz Arena. One of their best performers in Germany was Jeffrey Schlupp.
It is never smart to write a player off before he has kicked a ball for Celtic. And Schlupp is turning out to be a perfect example of that.
Schlupp was immense against Bayern Munich. He was handed the task of dealing with former Crystal Palace teammate, Michael Olise, and he did a brilliant job of defending against one of the best wingers on the planet right now.
The Crystal Palace loanee also dealt with Leroy Sane. And it is safe to say that a lot of people have changed their minds about the Schlupp signing now.
Celtic player refuses to discuss Parkhead future amid rumours
In fact, many would even like to see him remain at Celtic beyond his loan spell. Schlupp's current deal with Crystal Palace is believed to be running out in the summer.
Unsurprisingly, there has been speculation about his loan stint at Celtic Park becoming permanent if or when he becomes a free agent. Schlupp is not ready to discuss that yet though. As reported by STV News, he said:
"Everyone’s sort of asking that question, but again, I’ve come here on loan to the end of the season.
“Anything beyond that is out of my control at the minute, so I’ve just got to focus on the league for now. I want to win the league, I want to win the cup, and then what will be, will be."
It is understandable why Schlupp might be looking to keep his cards close to his chest. His contract runs out in the summer and he will want to have as much leverage as possible, if he does end up becoming a free agent.
Celtic will be signing Kieran Tierney next summer as a free agent. But there are question marks over Greg Taylor's future at the club.