Since Brendan Rodgers' return as Celtic manager, the club's transfer strategy has been confusing to say the very least. The club had seemed so efficient and swift when it came to transfers during Ange Postecoglou's two years at Parkhead. But that all went out of the window immediately and some of the signings that were being made raised eyebrows.
Let's take the example of Gustaf Lagerbielke. It never felt like he was a Rodgers-style centre-back. So, why was he brought in?
This summer, the same thing can be said about Hayato Inamura. Immediately after his arrival, it was declared that the plan was to send him out on loan. But then, the Japanese defender managed to impress in pre-season and it looked like the club were reconsidering their plans for him. Many fans believed he was going to be the cover for Kieran Tierney at left-back, on the back of his impressive performances.
That has not happened. And he was recently handed a double blow, which clearly shows that he is not in Rodgers' plans at all, even though he has not been sent out on loan yet.
Celtic summer signing already out of Brendan Rodgers' plans
Firstly, Inamura was left out of Celtic's squad for the Champions League qualifier play-off against Kairat Almaty. And then, he was not even included in the matchday squad against Falkirk.
Yes, Inamura cannot even make the matchday squad for the Scottish League Cup second round game. That just goes on to show where he stands in the pecking order right now.
Rodgers seems to be a lot more comfortable playing Liam Scales at left-back, if the club cannot bring in a replacement for Greg Taylor this summer. Considering the circumstances, it would be best to send Inamura out on loan as soon as possible. The chances are clearly not going to come at Parkhead.